Pork tenderloin is a popular and versatile cut of meat that comes from the pork loin. It is known for being lean, tender, and easy to cook. But when selecting a tenderloin at the grocery store or preparing recipes, an important factor to consider is the average weight.
Quick Answer
The average weight of a raw pork tenderloin ranges from 1 to 2 pounds. However, tenderloins can vary in size and weight depending on the specific cut, whether it has been trimmed, and the size of the pig it came from.
Looking at Different Cuts
There are a few different types of pork tenderloin cuts that range in average weight:
- Whole pork tenderloin – This is an untrimmed, full tenderloin as it comes directly from the pig. It averages around 1.5 pounds.
- Trimmed pork tenderloin – After removing the silverskin and excess fat, a trimmed tenderloin averages 1 to 1.25 pounds.
- Pork tenderloin roast – Left whole and tied, a tenderloin roast has an average weight of 1.5 pounds.
- Individual pork tenderloin fillets – When sliced lengthwise, each fillet averages around 4 to 8 ounces.
So while the typical weight is 1 to 2 pounds, the specifics depend on the cut and preparation method.
Weight Range
Although 1 to 2 pounds is typical, pork tenderloins can vary more broadly in weight:
- Small tenderloins may be only 0.5 pounds.
- Large, untrimmed tenderloins can be up to 3 pounds.
- Jumbo tenderloins from larger hogs may reach 4 pounds or more.
This range depends on the size and breed of pig it is cut from. Some heritage hog breeds, like Berkshire pork, produce especially large tenderloins.
Average Weight by Country
The average tenderloin weight also differs across parts of the world based on popular pig breeds and pork industry standards. Here are some examples:
- United States – 1.5 to 2 pounds
- Canada – 1.5 to 2.5 pounds
- Australia – 0.7 to 1.1 pounds
- New Zealand – 0.7 to 1.1 pounds
- United Kingdom – 0.7 to 1.1 pounds
- Europe – 0.5 to 1 pound
Pigs from North America tend to produce heavier tenderloins, while other parts of the world have smaller pork and leaner breeds that yield lighter, smaller tenderloins.
Average Weight by Thickness
The thickness or diameter of a tenderloin also impacts its weight. Here are some average weight ranges based on thickness:
| Tenderloin Diameter | Average Weight |
|---|---|
| 1 inch diameter | 0.5 to 0.75 pounds |
| 1.5 inch diameter | 0.75 to 1 pound |
| 2 inches diameter | 1 to 1.5 pounds |
| 2.5 inches diameter | 1.5 to 2 pounds |
| 3 inches diameter | 2 to 3 pounds |
As the tenderloin thickness increases, the average weight also tends to increase. Thinner tenderloins weigh less than thicker cuts.
Weight When Cooked
When cooked, the pork tenderloin weighs significantly less due to moisture loss. Here are some estimates for cooked weight:
- A 1-pound raw tenderloin yields around 3/4 pound cooked.
- A 1.5-pound raw tenderloin yields around 1 pound cooked.
- A 2-pound raw tenderloin yields around 1.25 pounds cooked.
In general, a cooked tenderloin will be around 25% less than its raw weight due to fat and water evaporating during the cooking process.
Weight for Recipes
When purchasing tenderloin for recipes, it’s useful to know the average weight:
- Most tenderloin recipes call for 1-pound tenderloins to serve 4 to 6 people.
- Recipes for stuffed tenderloin may use 2-pound cuts for more filling.
- Tenderloins are also good for portioning into smaller 3 to 5 ounce fillets for singles and couples.
Choosing the right size tenderloin for your recipe makes it easier to shop, budget, and end up with the proper amount of cooked meat for servings.
Factors Affecting Weight
There are a few factors that account for the differences and ranges in pork tenderloin weights:
- Breed – Heritage hog breeds tend to produce larger tenderloins than commercial pigs.
- Diet – Pasture-raised pigs on high protein diets tend to yield heavier tenderloins.
- Size – Older, larger hogs have bigger, heavier tenderloins.
- Sex – Castrated male pigs produce slightly heavier tenderloins.
- Trim – An untrimmed tenderloin weighs more than a trimmed, clean cut.
- Butchery – precision butchering and trimming affects weight.
Considering these factors can explain the range in weights and help select the best tenderloin size for your needs.
Selecting and Portioning Tenderloin
When purchasing pork tenderloin at the grocery store, keep this average weight range in mind. Here are some tips:
- Choose packages around 1 to 1.5 pounds for a typical tenderloin.
- Go larger (2 to 3 pounds) if planning to roast a whole tenderloin.
- For stuffed tenderloin, choose a 2+ pound cut.
- Pick smaller tenderloins (0.5 to 0.75 pounds) if portioning into single servings.
Also look at the diameter and thickness as a gauge – a 1-inch cut will be smaller than a 2-inch cut. And remember that the raw weight will be about 25% higher than the final cooked weight.
Portioning Tenderloin
When portioning a tenderloin at home, here are some typical serving sizes to target:
- Whole fillets: 4 to 8 ounces each
- Medallions or rounds: 3 ounces each
- Skewers or strips: 0.5 to 1 ounce pieces
Aim for individual portion sizes that match your recipe requirements. A 1-pound tenderloin can be sliced into 2 large fillets or about 12 medallions.
Conclusion
In summary, the average weight for a pork tenderloin ranges from 1 to 2 pounds. But there are many factors that cause this average weight to vary, including the cut, breed, and region of the world. When selecting tenderloin at the store or portioning at home, consider the desired serving sizes and recipe needs based on the typical weight range. With an understanding of pork tenderloin sizes, it’s easy to pick the right cut for any recipe or meal.