Approximately 75 pounds of pulled pork for 150 people.
For 150 people, plan on at least 0.5 pounds (8 ounces) of uncooked pulled pork per person. This translates to roughly 75 pounds of raw meat needed. This estimate accounts for shrinkage during cooking and ensures everyone can have a generous serving. It's always better to have a little extra than not enough.
Factors Affecting Quantity
Several factors influence the exact amount of pulled pork you'll need. Consider if pulled pork is the main dish or part of a larger buffet. Appetizers and other sides can reduce the per-person serving size. The age of your guests might also play a role; children often eat less than adults.
Serving Sizes
Standard Serving: 8 ounces (0.5 pounds) uncooked meat per person.
Buffet with Many Sides: Reduce to 6 ounces (0.375 pounds) uncooked meat per person.
Appetizer Portions: If served as sliders or small bites, 4 ounces (0.25 pounds) uncooked meat per person may suffice.
Cooking and Yield Comparison
| Method | Uncooked Meat Yield | Cooking Time (Approx.) | Effort Level |
| :------------ | :------------------ | :--------------------- | :----------- |
| Smoked Pork | 50% | 8-12 hours | High |
| Oven Roasted | 60% | 3-5 hours | Medium |
| Slow Cooker | 70% | 8-10 hours | Low |
Calculation Example
To calculate your needs:
1. Determine your expected serving size per person (e.g., 0.5 pounds).
2. Multiply by the number of guests (150 people).
0.5 pounds/person 150 people = 75 pounds uncooked meat.
If using a method with lower yield, like smoking, you might need to purchase slightly more raw pork to compensate for shrinkage. It's wise to round up your purchase to the nearest 5 or 10 pounds to be safe.