Interesting Facts about Pork, from History to the Best Cuts.



Pork is one of the most popular types of meat in the world. Apart from its enjoyment, apparently there is a unique history and interesting facts about this type of meat. Not beef or chicken, but pork is the most widely consumed in the world. This meat is liked because it tastes delicious, can be processed into various dishes, and the price is more affordable than beef. Pork has become an important part of many cuisines around the world. The pleasure is recognized, whether it's the crispy bacon or the juicy pork chops. Apart from its deliciousness, pork also has a ton of interesting facts, ranging from history, cultivation, to which cuts of pork are considered the tastiest. Here are a number of interesting facts about pork, which perhaps not many people know.

1. The origin of pork first time.

A Spanish explorer and conquistador named Hernando de Soto brought pork to a new world. He landed with the first 13 pigs in America in Tampa Bay, Florida, in 1539. Since then, Native Americans have reportedly loved the taste of pork. Resulting in some of the worst attacks on Hernando de Soto's expedition. Three years later, after Hernando de Soto died, his herd of pigs grew to 700 head. This number does not include pigs consumed by his troops, pigs that escaped, and pigs given to Native Americans. From year to year, pig production increases. Pigs were also introduced to New Mexico and were introduced to a number of markets in America.

2. Pork production.

Pigs are animals that breed throughout the year, so pork production is said to be a sustainable cycle. Mother pigs give birth to piglets twice a year. Each sow can usually have eight to twelve pigs. Pigs are then weaned when they are two to four weeks old. For some pig producers, they manage the cycle from breeding to sale. On most farms, pigs are kept in pens until their slaughter weight is more than 100 kg. This body weight figure is usually reached when the pig is 6 months old.

3. Feed affects the taste of pork.

Pigs in general can eat anything. pork like this usually contains very high fat. Pigs will usually eat corn, grass, or even scraps that would otherwise be trash. However, on some farms, pigs are fed more carefully. Modern pigs typically eat corn, wheat, and soybeans. Vitamins and minerals are added for growth and health. Today's pigs also weigh more because producers plan diets carefully. As a result, pigs grow more efficiently and produce more lean meat than previous pig production.

4. Kinds of pork cuts and the tastiest cuts.

Some cuts of pork can be enjoyed in certain dishes. Starting from the versatile shoulder, bones for grilling, and meat fillets that are suitable for steaks. The loin is suitable for grilling along with the skin. The skin can add flavor and crunch. The pork tenderloin or long thin muscle located inside the rib bone can be cooked whole, or cut into small pieces for stir-frying. Many pork ribs are also grilled or grilled after being marinated. It tastes juicy and delicious. The most favorite part is the pork belly which is tender, fatty and delicious. The high fat content gives the meat a strong taste. Moreover, when there is still skin attached.

In Asia, pork skin is also a favorite. Especially when processed into crispy and tasty chips. Usually enjoyed with mixed rice.

5. Healthy benefits of pork.

Pork is different because it contains higher amounts of myoglobin than other poultry and fish. Even though it doesn't have a bright red color, pork is still considered red meat. The color of the meat will appear lighter when cooked. Pork is known to be very delicious, but many people avoid it because it is considered unhealthy. However, it is not entirely true that pork is the unhealthy meat. In fact, compared to beef, pork is better for managing blood cholesterol levels. Although pork and beef are high in protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals, beef tends to have a higher number of calories, saturated fat, and cholesterol than pork.

6. The country that consumes the most pork.

Pork is indeed popular in the world. Many traditional dishes in the world also use pork as a basic ingredient. However, China, including Hong Kong and Macau, is the largest consumer of pork in the world. With per capita consumption of around 37 kg to 61 kg respectively. in China alone, annual pork consumption is 54 million metric tons. Although the title of largest meat consumer in the world goes to the United States, specifically for pork, China far surpasses other countries.