Pulled pork is a classic staple of barbecue cuisine. The tender, saucy pork is irresistible when piled high on a bun or enjoyed as sliders. However, this beloved meat dish does come with some potential digestive side effects. If you’ve ever wondered “why do I get diarrhea after eating pulled pork?” you’re not alone.
In this article we’ll break down the facts on diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues that can occur after consuming pulled pork. We’ll explore the most likely culprits including undercooking, food sensitivities, and contamination. Read on to get the inside scoop on this unpleasant post-pork plight.
Why Pulled Pork Causes Diarrhea for Some
There are a few key reasons why pulled pork and other barbecue fare may lead to diarrhea or other forms of food-induced gastroenteritis
Undercooked Meat
With any meat product, proper cooking is essential to food safety. Pulled pork shoulder requires prolonged cooking—typically smoking over low heat for 8-12 hours—to fully tenderize the tough cuts and melt away excess fat and collagen. This slow cooking at a low temperature can increase the risk of undercooking.
Pork needs to reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F throughout to kill any potential foodborne pathogens. If undercooked pork is consumed, it can transmit bacteria, viruses, or parasites to the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in diarrhea, vomiting, or other symptoms. Two common culprits are salmonella and trichinella spiralis parasites.
Contaminated Ingredients
In addition to the raw pork itself, other ingredients used in pulled pork recipes can also cause diarrhea if contaminated. This includes barbecue sauce, spices and seasonings, vegetables, etc. Cross-contamination from dirty cooking utensils or unwashed hands could also be to blame. Proper food safety practices are essential when preparing pulled pork, from start to finish.
Food Intolerances
Some individuals may experience diarrhea after eating pulled pork due to a personal sensitivity or intolerance to an ingredient. Two of the most likely offenders are:
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Pork: While uncommon, pork allergy or intolerance can cause gastrointestinal distress in sensitive people after eating pulled pork. Cooking and processing methods may concentrate allergenic proteins.
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Spices: Spices like cayenne, chili powder, paprika and cumin are common in bbq rubs and sauces. These fiery ingredients may irritate the digestive tract in those prone to sensitivity.
High Fat Content
The high fat content of pulled pork could also trigger diarrhea for some people, especially in large portions. Pork shoulder is a fatty cut, which becomes even richer once smoked for hours and mixed with sauce. Too much greasy, fatty food can cause digestive upset, gas pain, and loose stools. Those with gastrointestinal conditions need to be particularly mindful of dietary fat content.
Tips to Avoid Post-Pork Diarrhea
If you want to keep enjoying your pulled pork without the nasty side effects, here are some useful tips:
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Use a meat thermometer and cook until the internal temp reaches 145°F minimum. Don’t rely solely on cook time.
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When reheating leftovers, ensure they reach 165°F to kill any bacteria that may have developed.
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Handle raw pork carefully and avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen. Use separate utensils and dishes.
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Wash hands, surfaces, and utensils thoroughly before and after handling raw pork.
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Inspect pork carefully and discard any portions that show signs of spoilage. Don’t use pork past its expiration date.
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When purchasing pulled pork, only buy from reputable vendors. Make sure proper food safety protocols are followed.
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Stick to small portions and avoid overindulgence, especially with fatty sauces and sides.
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Opt for pulled pork made with leaner cuts like tenderloin or loin if you experience digestive sensitivity to fatty meals.
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Choose milder dry rubs and sauces as opposed to very spicy versions.
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Individuals with diagnosed pork allergy/intolerance should avoid pulled pork entirely and select alternate protein options.
Diarrhea Duration and When to Seek Help
If you do develop diarrhea after eating pulled pork or other suspect foods, most cases resolve on their own within 24-48 hours. Stay well hydrated and opt for bland foods like broth, rice, toast or yogurt to rest the digestive tract.
See a doctor promptly if diarrhea persists more than 3 days or is accompanied by symptoms like bloody stool, fever higher than 101°F, or signs of dehydration. People at higher risk for complications, like infants, elderly and those with weakened immune systems should also seek medical care.
Foodborne illness is serious business and claims over 3,000 American lives annually. While pulled pork mishaps account for only a small fraction of this, it illustrates the importance of proper food safety and handling when cooking with any raw meat products.
By understanding the potential risks and taking the right precautions, we can continue to relish delicious pulled pork while avoiding the dreaded post-meal diarrhea dash. Just make sure that pork is cooked safe and eaten in moderation. Follow these tips for pulled pork success with no messy digestive detours.
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FAQ
Can pulled pork cause diarrhea?
Why do I have diarrhea after barbecue?
Why does pork upset my bowels?
What is the stomach bug in pulled pork?
Can eating pork cause diarrhea and stomach cramps?
If diarrhea or stomach cramps are a consistent issue after eating pork, it might be an allergy or intolerance. However, if these symptoms occur only once, food poisoning from undercooked pork is a more likely cause. Trichinella, a type of roundworm, is often found in pig meat.
Can pork cause diarrhea?
Avoiding pork and other meats that cause allergic reactions is the most effective way to prevent symptoms. Bacteria play a significant role in causing diarrhea after eating pork. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is one of the most common bacterial agents responsible for post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) in pigs.
What happens if you eat spoiled pulled pork?
If you eat spoiled pulled pork, you risk getting food poisoning. Symptoms of food poisoning often starts in about 1 to 3 days, but symptoms can start any time from 30 minutes to 3 weeks after eating contaminated food. You may have food poisoning if you experience these common symptoms, according to Healthline:
What are the symptoms of eating undercooked pork?
Eating undercooked pork can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. These digestive system symptoms typically begin within 24 to 48 hours after consuming the contaminated pork. In some cases, muscle and joint pain, cough, headache, fever, and chill may develop weeks after the initial symptoms.