Pears

Juicy, sweet Michigan pears are tasty fresh or in a few Michigan-made products.

The majority of Michigan pear production takes place during the Bartlett pear season from late August to mid-September. Most fresh pears are consumed within a few weeks of harvest, and processed forms are available year round.

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Michigan Pear Facts

  • In 2009, Michigan produced 4,200 tons of pears, generating $1.4 million
  • Pears are harvested for fresh eating and processed for baby food
  • A limited amount of Michigan pears are used for wine and brandy
  • Bartlett is the primary pear variety grown in Michigan for both processing and fresh use
  • Other more common Michigan pear varieties include D’Anjou, Harrow
  • Delight, Spartlett and the newer, fire blight-resistant Harrow Sweet
  • Asian pear varieties are grown primarily for fresh consumption

Nutrition

  • One medium sized pear contains only 100 calories
  • Fresh pears are very low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium
  • Pears are a good source of vitamin C
  • Pears are a very good source of dietary fiber