Ingredient

Pork Carnitas

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Source

Animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Manufacturers add pork carnitas to packaged foods as a main protein component, providing flavor …

What it is

Pork carnitas is a traditional Mexican dish made from pork that is slow-cooked until very tender. The pork is typically simmered in its own fat or lard, often with seasonings, until it is soft enough to be shredded, and then often crisped.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add pork carnitas to packaged foods as a main protein component, providing flavor and texture. It is commonly found in prepared meals, deli items, and frozen entrees, offering a convenient way to enjoy this traditional dish.

Health notes

Pork carnitas is a whole food, not a food additive, and is generally recognized as safe for consumption. As a meat product, it provides protein but can also be high in fat, including saturated fat. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend keeping saturated fat intake to less than 10% of daily calories. JECFA and EFSA primarily evaluate food additives and have not specifically evaluated pork carnitas.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Products containing Pork Carnitas

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Smithfield Farmland Corp. Slow-Roasted Pork, Sweet & Smoky BBQ Cooked & Prepared High in sodium — 28% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 21% DV per serving 157kcal 13.6Protein 6.4Fat 11.4Carbs Smithfield Farmland Corp. Slow-Roasted Pork Cooked & Prepared High in sodium — 25% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 21% DV per serving 136kcal 13.6Protein 6.4Fat 4.3Carbs Mistica Foods, LLC Braised Pork Carnits Meal Kit Other Deli High in sodium — 22% DV per serving 179kcal 9.3Protein 10Fat 13.6Carbs Papa John's Salads & Produce Carnitas Burrito Bowl Other Deli High in sodium — 41% DV per serving 93kcal 5.8Protein 1.3Fat 14.7Carbs Flagship Food Group North America LLC Pork Chile Verde, Beans & Rice Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 24% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 176kcal 8.8Protein 10Fat 12.9Carbs Udi, The Sandwichman, Inc. Pork Carnitas Burrito With Roasted Potatoes Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 176kcal 6.5Protein 5.3Fat 25.3Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Braised Pork Carnitas Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 27% DV per serving 179kcal 9.3Protein 10Fat 13.6Carbs

H E Butt Grocery Company Pork Carnitas Mexican Recipe Shredded Pork Carnitas With Cilantro Rice, Refried Black Beans & Salsa Verde Sauce Bowl, Pork Carnitas Other Deli High in sodium — 50% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 135kcal 8.3Protein 3.9Fat 17.3Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.