Pears

Pears are a type of fruit that grows on trees and is harvested in the Northern Hemisphere from late summer to early October. The pear tree and shrub belong to the genus Pyrus, which belongs to the Rosaceae family and bears the same-named pomaceous fruit. Pears are grown for their edible fruit and juices in some species, while others are grown as trees in others. The tree is medium in size and native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia's coastal and slightly temperate regions. Pear wood is one of the most popular materials for making high-end woodwind instruments and furnishings. Pears are grown in about 3000 different types around the world, each with its own shape and flavor.The fruit is consumed fresh, canned, as juice, or dried.

Pears are one of the leading fruit sources of fiber. A medium-sized pear packs 6 grams of fiber, which equals about 21% of the recommended daily value. The skin contains the majority of the fiber found in a pear, so enjoy the skin for added flavor, texture, and nutrients. The soluble fiber in pears has been found to lower LDL, or bad cholesterol, levels. This contributes to heart health and reduces one’s risk for cardiovascular disease.