*Pears are the edible pomaceous fruits of many species of the genus, Pyrus, in the rose family and closely related to the apple tree.

*Pears are pyriform, with a papery thin skin that is green or yellow or red or brown colored, and a white or creamy white flesh and a core that encloses the seeds.

*The interior flesh is ‘gritty’ to feel

*Dried pears are cored pears that are peeled or unpeeled.

*Buying and storage: Select good quality dried pears, unsulphured if possible. Store in an airtight container ro a zip-lock bag at room temperature and they will keep well for several weeks.

Is it raw?

Yes and No.
*Yes, dried or dehydrated pears are raw.
*No, because sometimes dried or dehydrated pears at the supermarkets are sulphured and glaced or candied. Make sure you read the label.

Health Benefits

1. Pears are hypoallergenic fruits. People with allergies can safely eat pears without any side effects. These are classified one of the hypoallergenic foods along with soy products and lamb.

2. They are low in sodium and have good amounts of potassium. This helps to maintain the blood pressure and reduces water retention. Potassium is also important for active muscles and nerves.

3. Good source of iron, which helps in respiration at the cellular level by synthesizing hemoglobin that helps to carry oxygen to cells.

4. Good source of copper, which reduces the risk of inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, enhances the activity of enzymes that are needed to maintain the elasticity of blood vessels, ligaments and joints.

5. Good source of manganese, which is an essential cofactor in many enzymatic reactions in the body, especially in the production of energy and antioxidants defenses.

6. Moderate source of magnesium. It helps in relieving fatigue, relaxing the muscles, nerves and blood vessels, thus relieving the symptoms of asthma, migraine headaches, tension and soreness in muscles etc.

7. Good source of Vitamin C, a natural water soluble antioxidant. It enhances the body's immune system, increases the elasticity of skin and blood vessels, and prevents bruising of the skin.

8. Vitamin C and copper together act as natural antioxidants, which scavenge the free radicals that oxidize fats, preserves the integrity of cell membranes and protects our body by reducing the risk of inflammatory, cardiovascular and degenerative diseases.

9. Very good source of soluble dietary fiber. It adds roughage to the contents of the intestines, promotes satiety, maintains the blood glucose and also helps in relieving constipation, hemorrhoids, diverticular disorders, etc.

10. High dietary fiber creates a sense of fullness in the stomach, thus it also aids weight loss.

11. Fiber rich pears also help lower cholesterol levels in the blood, thus promoting cardiovascular health.