In pork, the rib chop comes from which part of the animal?

The rib chop in pork is cut from the loin section of the pig. This area is located along the back of the animal and extends from just behind the shoulder to the front of the hind leg. The loin is well-known for producing tender and flavorful cuts, including rib chops, which are characterized by their tenderness due to the muscle's low usage.

The rib area, while it might suggest rib chops, is primarily where cuts like rib roasts or spare ribs come from. On the other hand, the shoulder encompasses other cuts such as picnic shoulder and Boston butt, which are suitable for slow cooking and other preparations. The leg area, often associated with hams, provides different types of cuts focused on curing and holiday feasting. Hence, while all these options are valid parts of the pig, the rib chop specifically derives from the loin.