what temperature to cook
USDA Revises Cooking Temperatures for Pork. May 25, 2011 -- Just in time for the start of grilling season, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has updated guidelines for safely preparing pork. The USDA recommends that pork be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The federal agency says it is lowering the recommended safe cooking temperature for whole cuts of pork from 160 degrees to 145 degrees and adding a 3-minute rest time.
New Guideline Does Not Apply to Ground Meats. The USDA says the change does not apply to ground meats, including beef, veal, lamb, and pork, which should be cooked to 160 degrees. The safe cooking temperature for all poultry products, including chicken and turkey, remains 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
1 After about 3 hours, insert an oven-safe thermometer deep into the thigh without touching the bone. 2  Begin checking the turkey for doneness about 30 minutes before the recommended cook time.  Your turkey is done when the temperature with a meat thermometer is 180Â° F in thigh and 165Â° F in breast or stuffing.