To select fresh and delicious pork for your family meals, here are some essential tips to keep in mind.

Pork is a staple food in many households. From this ingredient, you can prepare a variety of mouthwatering dishes such as boiled pork, braised pork, roasted pork, and fried pork. Some families also prefer buying large quantities of pork to freeze for later use, saving time on grocery shopping each day.

When purchasing pork, everyone wants to choose the freshest and highest quality pieces for their family meals. So, do you know the right techniques to pick the best pork?

Should You Choose Lighter or Darker Pork?

The first thing to pay attention to when buying pork is the color of the meat. Freshly slaughtered pork typically has a bright red or light red color.

Darker pork might indicate that the meat hasn't been fully processed, and there could still be blood clots inside. However, if the meat turns a dark blackish color, it's a sign that the pig may have been dead for too long. Avoid buying pieces with such dark coloring.

The color can also reflect the freshness of the pork. Lighter-colored pork could occur in two situations. First, it might be pork that has been frozen and properly stored, then thawed at the place of sale. In this case, the meat will have a lighter color, usually light red or pale pink. Properly frozen pork preserves its taste and nutrition, and you can confidently buy it for your family meals.

Another reason for pale-colored pork is when the seller injects water into the meat to increase its weight. Pork with high water content not only loses its nutritional value but also becomes more susceptible to bacterial contamination. If you notice pork that is pale, wet, and releasing water, it's best to avoid it.

Additionally, keep in mind that each part of the pig can have a slightly different color, and it's normal for there to be some variation in the meat's hue.

Other Tips for Choosing Good Pork

Besides observing the color, here are some additional points to consider when selecting pork:

• Look at the Skin:
  If the pig was healthy, the skin will be white, and the blood under the fur will appear bright red. The fat should also be white and fresh. On the other hand, if the pig was sick, the skin may have small red spots, and the legs may be a dark purple color. In such cases, avoid purchasing the meat.

• Check the Meat's Elasticity:
  The elasticity of the meat can indicate its quality. Press your finger into the meat and release it. If the meat returns to its original shape immediately, it’s fresh and of good quality. If the meat stays dented, it's a sign of poor freshness, and you should avoid it.

• Smell the Meat:
  Always check the smell of the pork. If it has an unpleasant or unusual odor, it's likely spoiled or from a sick animal. If it only has the normal fresh smell of raw pork, it’s safe to buy.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you select the best pork for your meals.