What is this food?
Pork tail (usually cooked as a rich, fatty pork dish). It’s mainly a protein food, but it’s also high in fat.
Why it matters to health
Pork tail can help you meet your daily protein needs for muscle and satiety. However, per 100g it’s also high in total fat (46.1g) and saturated fat (16.0g), with cholesterol (133mg). It also has low carbs and fiber (0g), so it won’t help much with digestion or steady energy. The sodium is relatively low in the given data (75mg), but the way it’s cooked (sauces, seasoning, broth) can still raise sodium. Keeping portions reasonable helps you enjoy it while balancing overall fat intake across your 3 full meals and 1–2 snacks a day.
Healthier tips
- Portion: Aim for a smaller serving (about 1/4 to 1/3 cup cooked) and balance the plate with rice in a controlled amount and lots of vegetables.
- Pair smart: Add non-starchy veggies (e.g., kangkong, pechay, ampalaya, okra) and a source of fiber (like a side salad or gulay).
- Cooking method: If possible, choose less oily preparation (less frying, skim excess fat from the sauce/broth).
- Frequency: Have it occasionally rather than every day, especially if you also eat other fatty meats.
- Balance the day: On days you eat pork tail, choose leaner options for the next meal/snack (e.g., fish, eggs in moderation, tofu, or chicken without skin) and include fruit/vegetables.
Common Filipino dishes
Pork tail sinigang, Pork tail kare-kare, Pork tail ginataan, Crispy pork tail (chicharon-style), Pork tail adobo