Can you Please rate 'Pulled Pork' on a nutritional basis?

Question

Red meat is generally bad for you. Meats like turkey and chicken are generally better. I know that Bacon is really bad for you with all of the fat and nitrites. But what about pulled pork? Is that closer to red meat or to turkey?

Answer 1

The nutritional composition of pulled pork can vary depending on the cut of meat and how it was prepared. Typically pulled pork will come from either pork shoulder or pork boston butt cuts. Protein content will be pretty consistent regardless of the trim, but fat content can vary depending on how much fat is left on the meat when it's roasted and "pulled."

Here is the basic nutritional info for each cut. Remember, this doesn't include BBQ sauce, it's the meat only.

Pork Shoulder
Serving Size: 3 oz

Calories: 248
Fat: 18.2 g
Saturated Fat: 6.7 g
Cholesterol: 76.5 mg
Protein: 19.8

Pork Butt Roast
Serving: 3 oz

Calories: 299
Fat: 16 g
Saturated Fat: 5.9 g
Cholesterol: 73 mg
Protein: 19.6 g

So, while it's not terrible for you, it's also not nearly as lean as turkey or chicken breast (which will come in under 10 grams of fat per 4 oz.)

If you are craving a lean meat that isn't chicken or turkey, consider boneless pork tenderloin, which has under 5 grams of fat per 3 oz serving and as much protein as turkey breast. You can even slice it and add a little BBQ sauce and have something similar to a pulled pork sandwich.

Best of luck!