Pork Shoulder Smells Like Fart: What It Means

Last Updated on July 17, 2024 by Shari Mason

Should you be an individual who relishes cooking pork shoulder, you might have encountered a noticeably unpleasant odor during its preparation. This particular smell, which has been equated with the aroma of flatulence, can be rather off-putting.

While this odor is not harmful, it can affect your dish’s flavor and enjoyment. The good news is that there are several ways to address this issue and ensure that your pork shoulder comes out smelling and tasting great. 

I’ve determined why pork shoulder smells like a fart. Read on why it happens.

What Does It Mean When Pork Shoulders Smells Like Fart? 

When pork shoulder smells like a fart, it means that it’s emitting a foul odor that’s reminiscent of sulfur or rotten eggs.

The most common cause of this smell is the production of a compound called hydrogen sulfide, produced by bacteria. 

If the pork [1] is not stored correctly or cooked to the right temperature, bacteria can grow and produce this compound, resulting in an unpleasant smell. 

“To butcher a pork shoulder is to be forcibly reminded that this is the shoulder of a large mammal, made up of distinct groups of muscles with a purpose quite apart from feeding me. The work gives me a keener interest in the story of the hog: where it came from and how it found its way to my kitchen.”

– Michael Pollan, Author

While the smell may be off-putting, it’s not harmful and can be eliminated by cooking or adding aromatic herbs and spices to mask the smell.

It’s essential to follow proper cooking and storage techniques to prevent the smell from occurring in the first place.

Read: How To Finish Pork Shoulder In Oven?

How To Prevent The Fart-Like Smell?

1. Cook the pork to the proper temperature – Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to kill harmful bacteria. This will also prevent bacteria from producing hydrogen sulfide, the compound that causes the fart-like smell.
2. Store the pork properly – It’s essential to store pork in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent the growth of bacteria. Be sure to use the pork within a few days of purchase.
3. Use fresh pork – Fresh pork is less likely to have bacteria that can cause a fart-like smell. When buying pork, ensure it’s fresh and has no strong odor.
4. Avoid prolonged exposure to air – Prolonged exposure can cause bacteria to grow and produce a fart-like smell. It’s best to keep the pork in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
5. Don’t leave the pork at room temperature for too long – Leaving pork at room temperature for an extended period can promote bacterial growth. Keep the pork refrigerated until you’re ready to cook it.

What To Do If Pork Shoulder Smells Like Fart?

1. Add aromatic herbs and spices – Adding aromatic herbs and spices like rosemary [2], thyme, garlic, or onions can help to mask the unpleasant smell and add flavor to the dish.
2. Cook the pork to the proper temperature – Cooking the pork to the proper temperature of 145°F (63°C) can help eliminate the bacteria causing the foul odor.
3. Discard the pork if necessary – If the smell is powerful or the pork is slimy or sticky to the touch, it’s best to discard the meat.
4. Use a different cooking method – If you’re still unsure about using the pork shoulder, try a different cooking method that may help eliminate the smell. Slow roasting with a dry rub, braising with aromatic vegetables and stock, or smoking with wood chips can all help to add flavor and aroma to the dish.

Can You Still Eat Pork Shoulder If It Smells Like Fart?

If your pork shoulder emits a fart-like smell, it can be off-putting and make you question whether it’s safe to eat. However, in most cases, it’s still safe to consume. 

“While the aroma of pork shoulders may not always be enchanting, their taste can transform the most pungent of scents into a symphony of flavors.”

Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

The smell is caused by bacteria that produce hydrogen sulfide, but it’s not harmful and can be eliminated by cooking or adding aromatic herbs and spices. 

It’s essential to cook the pork to the proper temperature of 145°F (63°C) to eliminate harmful bacteria.

However, if the smell is powerful or the pork is slimy or sticky to the touch, it’s best to discard the meat to ensure food safety. 

FAQs

Key Takeaways

While the fart-like smell in pork shoulder can be off-putting, it’s generally not harmful and can be prevented through proper storage and cooking techniques. 

The smell is caused by bacteria that produce hydrogen sulfide, but it can be eliminated by cooking or adding aromatic herbs and spices. 

By following proper cooking and storage techniques, you can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and ensure that your pork dishes come out delicious and aromatic every time. 

And if you encounter a foul odor, don’t worry – there are ways to salvage the dish and enjoy the flavorful goodness of pork shoulder.

References:

1. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/glossary/pork-glossary
2. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-154/rosemary