The next time you need a gift or you simply want to thank someone, the Nebraska Pork Producers Association (NPPA) can help with Pork Gift Certificates.

Pork Gift Checks, available from the NPPA, can be purchased in $10 and $25 denominations.

"What is especially exciting about the Pork Gift Certificate program is how easy it is to use the gift checks," says Bill Luckey, NPPA president and pork producer from Columbus.

"The certificates are easy to purchase – just call or email NPPA – and they are even easier to redeem. They look and redeem just like a check. Use them anywhere pork is sold – a restaurant, supermarket or even your local butcher."

Pork is a great source of high-quality protein. A 3-ounce serving of pork tenderloin has 24 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat and 0 carbohydrates. As a complete protein, pork contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It is also an excellent source of zinc, vitamin B12 and B5, thiamin and iron--all characteristics of a heart-healthy diet, according to Luckey.

"Thanks to the dedication of America's pork producers, the six most common cuts of pork are now 16% leaner than 15 years ago, and saturate fat has dropped 27%, he adds.

"Pork is exceptionally versatile meat. So whether you use your gift check to purchase a cut from the meat pork marinated, dry-rubbed, roasted, microwaved, grilled, skewered, pan-fried, stir-fried, broiled, barbecued or baked. Now that's a versatile gift."

If you use your gift check to prepare a meal at home, visit www.theotherwhitemeat.com for thousands of great recipes and menu ideas.

Remember to use a meat thermometer to judge doneness. Pork is best when cooked to medium doneness, or an internal temperature of 160 degrees F. A hint of pink-blush in the center is ideal and indicates tender, juicy pork.

If you use your gift check at a restaurant, register the location in the online database - America's Favorite Pork Places - located at www.theotherwhitemeat.com/AmericasFavoritePorkPlaces so that others can enjoy the pork-friendly restaurant, too.

Purchase inquiries should be directed to NPPA: (888) 627-7675 or [email protected].