For most people, pork is a staple on the dining table. In fact, around 90% of households rely on it as their primary source of meat. It’s tasty, versatile, and affordable.

But here’s something many don’t realize: not every part of a pig is safe to eat. Butchers themselves avoid cooking certain cuts for their own families — yet these parts still end up on many people’s plates every day.

If you’re a pork lover, this is worth knowing, so you don’t waste money on low-quality or potentially harmful cuts again.

The 5 “Dirtiest” Parts of a Pig

1. Pork Shoulder (Upper Blade Meat)

This cut comes from the pig’s upper shoulder and has a marbled look, with pink flesh and streaks of fat. While it may look appealing, it’s often the site where pigs are injected with vaccines or medications. Residues can remain in the tissue, making it one of the least desirable cuts. Experienced butchers and buyers usually steer clear of it, even if sellers try to pass it off as premium meat.

2. Pork Neck

Neck meat, sometimes called “blood meat,” is another problematic area. It contains numerous lymph nodes, which are natural storage points for bacteria and viruses. Consuming too much can be harmful. Because it’s cheap, pork neck is often sold in bulk to noodle shops or small eateries, allowing them to cut costs while still turning a profit.

3. Pig Intestines

For many, intestines are a delicacy. But they are also where waste passes through the animal’s body. If not cleaned properly, they carry a strong odor and unpleasant taste. Traditional cleaning methods involve scrubbing and rinsing several times, often with flour, to remove bacteria and smell. Without proper preparation, they can be unhygienic and unsafe.

4. Pig Lungs

Lungs are sometimes served as a cheap snack to pair with alcohol, but they’re one of the riskiest parts to eat. Since lungs filter dust, bacteria, and parasites during breathing, they often contain harmful contaminants. Poor handling only makes the risk worse. Because “illness often enters through the mouth,” pig lungs are best avoided altogether.

5. Pig Brain

Soft and creamy, pig brains have a texture similar to tofu and are sometimes considered a delicacy. But nutritionally, they’re very high in cholesterol and triglycerides. For older adults, eating them regularly can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. The safest approach is to eat little or none at all.