AMES, Iowa -- Today’s college student often relies on food in two ways: quick and easy. Of course, students often look at the cost, and occasionally nutrition. Pork has an important role in the household meals of many, including students, because it can check all these boxes.

Pork is a source of lean protein that’s also low in fat, making it a great choice for all consumers. Joyce Hoppes, Iowa Pork Producers Association Consumer Information Director, said pork is naturally high in nutrition and easy to prepare.

“Consumers will be more apt to enjoy pork and benefit from its nutritional value if it’s prepared properly,” she said. “Proper pork preparation is a key to flavor, and that’s the reason the pork industry is placing a high priority on proper pork cookery.”

With the demand for protein options in the college apartment, pork is a great option. Thanks to popular kitchen appliances like air fryers and flat top griddles, pork can be quickly, easily, and safely prepared.

“Shifts in family structure are definitely impacting meal decisions and food buying patterns,” Hoppes said. “They want their food to taste good, be good for them, and be affordable.”

The National Pork Board said fresh pork cuts, including chops, roasts, and loins, can be safely cooked to 145 degrees with a 3-minute rest time to ensure the best eating experience. Ground pork should be cooked to 160 degrees. If you don’t have the time to prepare whole cuts of meat, remember bacon, pepperoni, and sausage. These are often forgotten when thinking about pork, and can be purchased pre-cooked and ready to use.

From pizza to BLTs, popular food dishes make pork easy to consume every day. By including pork products in their meal and snack choices, college students can more easily and economically add protein to their diet.

This article was written by IPIC student communications assistant Lauren Beyer.

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IPIC was established in 1994 as a coordinated effort of the colleges of Agriculture (now Agriculture and Life Sciences) and Veterinary Medicine at ISU. Its mission is to promote efficient pork production technologies in Iowa, maintain Iowa's pork industry leadership and strengthen rural development efforts. IPIC focuses its efforts on programs that are integral and complementary to ISU Extension and Outreach. Through IPIC, Iowa producers receive accurate and timely information to make their operations more efficient and profitable.