Pulled pork is a classic barbecue dish that many people love. However, some find that eating pulled pork causes stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and other unpleasant symptoms. If you experience stomach pain or other issues after eating pulled pork, there are a few possible reasons why.
Pork Allergy
One potential cause of getting sick from pulled pork is having a pork allergy Pork allergy is relatively uncommon but cases are increasing due to better diagnosis. The proteins in pork can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
Symptoms of pork allergy are similar to other food allergies and can include:
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Hives
- Swelling of the mouth, lips or face
- Runny nose
- Itchy skin
In severe cases a pork allergy may even cause anaphylaxis – a life-threatening reaction that impairs breathing. People with a pork allergy often react more to undercooked or smoked pork than well-cooked pork.
If you suspect a pork allergy, see an allergist. They can perform skin prick tests or blood tests to confirm. You may need to avoid pork completely if allergic.
Pork Intolerance
Instead of an allergy, you may have an intolerance to pork. This means your body has difficulty digesting proteins found in pork.
Symptoms of pork intolerance are similar to a pork allergy but generally milder. They include:
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Gas
- Heartburn
Diagnosing a pork intolerance can be tricky since the symptoms overlap with other conditions. Keeping a food diary tracking meals and symptoms can help identify intolerances. An elimination diet removing pork for 2-8 weeks under medical supervision may also reveal a pork intolerance.
If you have a confirmed pork intolerance, you may need to avoid pork or limit intake to prevent symptoms. Speak to a dietitian about safe ways to eliminate trigger foods.
Improperly Cooked Pulled Pork
Pulled pork that hasn’t reached safe internal temperatures may contain harmful bacteria or parasites, causing food poisoning.
Undercooked pork can contain trichinella roundworms that cause trichinosis. Symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Muscle pain
These symptoms typically appear 1 week after consuming undercooked pork. You may experience one-time food poisoning if you ate pork that wasn’t fully cooked.
To enjoy pulled pork safely, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 145°F internally before eating. Proper cooking kills any parasites or bacteria present.
Other Causes
While allergies, intolerance and undercooking are the most likely reasons pulled pork would make you sick, other possibilities exist too:
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Food poisoning from unsanitary conditions during processing or storage can cause illness. Ensure pork comes from a reputable source.
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Seasonings or sauces used in pulled pork may trigger symptoms in those with sensitivities. Try pulled pork without add-ins to see if that’s the issue.
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Medications – Some drugs may interact with compounds in pork, causing side effects like stomach upset.
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Overeating – Eating a large quantity of any food, including pork, can lead to indigestion or diarrhea. Portion control is key.
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Underlying conditions – Gastrointestinal diseases like IBS or food absorption issues may make it harder to digest pork. See a doctor if problems persist.
Preventing Pork-Related Sickness
If you want to keep enjoying pulled pork without unpleasant symptoms, follow these tips:
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Get tested for pork allergy or intolerance if pork frequently makes you sick.
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When cooking pulled pork at home, use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 145°F.
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When dining out, check that the pork is fully cooked rather than pink inside. Send it back if undercooked.
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Try pulled pork without sauces or seasonings to see if you react to add-ins rather than the pork itself.
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Stick to moderate portion sizes, even if the pulled pork is delicious! Overeating any food can cause GI upset.
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Take note of any medications you’re on and possible interactions with pork compounds. Ask your pharmacist or doctor.
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See a doctor if you have ongoing digestive issues after eating pork or other foods. An underlying condition may be the reason.
While pulled pork can be problematic for some people, paying attention to proper cooking, potential seasonings or sauces and your personal tolerance can help you keep enjoying this BBQ staple. Be aware of any persistent symptoms and see a medical professional if needed. With the right approach, pulled pork doesn’t have to be off limits.
Testing for Pork Sensitivity
If you want to be sure that your symptoms are really caused by a pork sensitivity, you should take a food sensitivity test. This will show you if you are sensitive to pork and if there are other ingredients that are also making you sick when you eat. At YorkTest, we use a finger prick blood sample to look at your IgG antibodies 1–4. This is one of the most accurate ways to test.
You may be sensitive to more than 200 ingredients, and the blood test can show you how sensitive you are to each one in an easy-to-understand traffic light system. Our team can help you understand your food sensitivities once you have your results. They can also tell you how to use your results in your everyday diet to make your food elimination diet journey easier. We suggest that you set up a meeting with one of our highly qualified nutritional therapists for more in-depth help and advice.
How long will a pork sensitivity last?
Pork sensitivities are not necessarily lifelong. Through careful elimination diets, you may be able to reintroduce pork into your regular diet with time. An allergy, on the other hand, can’t be cured and can even cause reactions that are life-threatening in the worst cases. If you have an allergy, you should always talk to a doctor to make sure your body is getting the nutrients it needs.
5 Tips for Pulled Pork Perfection! | Chuds BBQ
FAQ
Why do I feel sick after eating pulled pork?
Why does pork upset my stomach?
Why would pork make someone sick?
What is the food poisoning in BBQ pork?
Is pork bad for You?
The main (but not the only) reason why pork is bad for you is its high content of saturated fats and cholesterol. However, as is often the case with nutrition, the scientific studies are not always clear-cut, and dietary recommendations tend to be laxer than existing evidence. Pigs were domesticated in Mesopotamia, around 15,000 years ago.
Why is pork not recommended to eat?
This is not true, some cuts like sirloin and pork rump steak, for example, are very healthy, even healthier than beef and chicken. Only the fattest cuts like bacon and crackling should be avoided.
Is pork a food poisoning?
Pork is a type of meat that is often associated with food poisoning, specifically a parasitic infection known as trichinosis. Trichinosis is caused by a type of roundworm called Trichinella, which can be found in raw or undercooked pork products that are infested with larvae.
What causes stomach pain after eating pork?
Stomach pain after eating pork could be caused by an allergy, intolerance or improper preparation. Bacon, ham and pork chops make for tasty meals, but for some people, pig products can cause stomach pain. If you regularly experience stomach cramps or diarrhea after eating pork, it’s possible you have a food allergy or intolerance.