Food Safety Certification Practice Test

What is the recommended time and temperature for cooking a medium roast or pork roast?

1. 140°F for 15 minutes

2. 145°F for 4 minutes

3. 160°F for 10 minutes

4. 150°F for 5 minutes

The correct answer is: 145°F for 4 minutes

Cooking a pork roast to an internal temperature of 145°F followed by a rest time of at least 4 minutes is the recommended practice to ensure food safety while preserving the quality and juiciness of the meat. The temperature of 145°F is above the safe cooking temperature threshold, which effectively kills harmful bacteria and parasites, such as Trichinella spiralis, that can be present in undercooked pork. The resting period is essential because it allows the temperature to continue to rise slightly, ensuring that the meat is cooked thoroughly and evenly while also allowing the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and flavorful roast. This method combines scientific safety guidelines with culinary techniques to achieve a quality product. In the other options, lower temperatures or shorter cooking times do not meet the recommended food safety standards. Cooking at any of these options would not sufficiently reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses associated with pork.