With over 3,000 varieties of pears worldwide, the Bartlett pear is the most commonly eaten variety in the United States.

PearBackground

  • Pears belong to the Rosaceae botanical family which also includes apples, stone fruits, and berries.
  • Some of the most common pear varieties found at grocers include the Bartlett, Anjou, Asian, and Bosc pears.
  • The Bartlett and Anjou pear have green and red varieties available.
  • Most pears produced in the United States are grown in Oregon and Washington.

Nutrition

  • Pears are an excellent source of fiber and a good source of copper and vitamin C.
    • Fiber assists in maintaining bowel regularity, while also helping lower cholesterol levels and control blood sugar levels.
    • Copper is an antioxidant which aids in energy production, iron metabolism, nervous system function, and bone formation.
    • Vitamin C is an antioxidant which supports wound healing, immune function, and the formation of collagen and connective tissue.

How to Purchase, Prepare, and Store

  • Pears are available year-round at grocers. In the Midwest, freshly harvested pears can be found at farmers markets or orchards from late August to early October, depending on variety.
  • Choose pears that are firm with smooth skin. They should be free of bruises and blemishes.
  • Store pears at room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, you can place in the refrigerator for 2-3 days to extend shelf life.
  • It is typical for pears to be unripe when purchased. To speed up the ripening process, place pears in a brown paper bag with a banana. The ethylene gas from the banana quickens the ripening process.
  • Pears can be eaten fresh, canned, dried, juiced, or cooked. Add to salads, smoothies, baked good recipes, and jam or jelly recipes.

Nutrition Facts

1 cup pear, raw (140 g)

  • Calories: 88.2
  • Protein: 0.53 g
  • Fat: 0.22 g
  • Carbohydrate: 21.1 g
  • Fiber: 4.34 g
  • Calcium: 11.2 mg w
  • Iron: 0.23 mg
  • Magnesium: 7.98 mg
  • Phosphorus: 14.0 mg
  • Folate: 8.4 µg w
  • Vitamin A: 1.4 µg

Via fdc.nal.usda.gov

Recipes

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