Final answer:
To be safe for consumption, a pork butt roast must reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This is the minimum temperature to ensure the meat is cooked sufficiently to avoid foodborne illnesses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The internal temperature that a pork butt roast should reach to be considered safe to eat is 145°F (63°C). This ensures that it has been cooked sufficiently to kill any bacteria that might be present. For whole cuts of pork like pork butt roasts, steaks, chops, and fully cooked ham, this is the minimum safe internal temperature recommended. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method for checking whether the pork has reached the correct temperature. Remember that consuming undercooked pork can lead to foodborne illnesses; therefore, adhering to the correct temperature is crucial for health and safety.
It's important to note that while 145°F (63°C) is the safe minimum internal temperature for pork, some recipes and chefs recommend cooking pork butt to higher internal temperatures, such as 185°F (85°C), to break down connective tissues and achieve a more tender and flavorful result. This is especially true if you are slow-cooking or smoking the meat.