DINING: New meat recommendations — and free food

Heidi Knapp Rinella, Diva of Dining

14 years ago

Good news for fans of juicy meat: The U.S. Department of Agriculture now recommends that all whole cuts of meat, including pork, be cooked to 145 degrees. The recommendation for beef, veal and lamb had been 145, but now pork joins the party — much to the glee of the Pork Information Bureau, because pork can get awfully dry at higher temperatures.

Note that this does not apply to ground meats, which the USDA still recommends be cooked to 160 degrees, or poultry (including ground), for which it recommends 165 degrees.

And the new guideline comes with a caveat: After the meat reaches 145 degrees, let it rest for three minutes before carving or eating. During that time the temperature will stay the same or rise slightly, which kills pathogens. …

And good news for fans of free food. Two local Panda Express restaurants — at 1617 Boulder Highway in Boulder City and 6475 N. Decatur Blvd. — are offering a free entree to anyone who buys a two- or three-entree plate from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday (May 27). Note that the deal is only good at these locations. …