Asian Pear

Asian pear may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. 

Native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia and cultivated for centuries by farmers and horticulturalists throughout Asia, the asian pear is grown for its cultural significance, medicinal benefits, and symbolism of grace, purity, and wisdom. Reverence for the fruit (along with Asian immigration to Australia, North America, and other parts of the world) have resulted in thousands of varieties that, when ripe, range in ombre hues of the sun—some sandy and mottled, others golden and speckled white, even a few that are kissed with fiery bronze.

• Slow the browning. Cut pieces of asian pear turn brown quickly once exposed to air, which is harmless, but tossing the slices in a squeeze of lemon or lime juice can prevent browning. 

• Poach a batch and freeze it in portions. Simmering wedges of asian pear in water or a spiced tea until fully soft gives you ready-to-serve fruit that can be frozen, then thawed for future meals. 

• Grate or shred raw asian pear into food you are already serving. A shredded pile stirred into yogurt, oatmeal, or a rice bowl adds sweetness and moisture without the firm texture of a raw slice.

Yes. Asian pear is firm and slippery, even when ripe, which are qualities that pose an increased risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve asian pear in an age-appropriate way as described in How to Serve. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals. 

Learn the signs of choking and gagging and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No. However, individuals with birch pollen allergy or oral allergy syndrome (also called pollen food allergy syndrome) may be sensitive to raw pears.^{[1] [2] [3]} Symptoms of oral allergy syndrome generally consist of mild oral itching, and are unlikely to be dangerous.

Yes. Asian pears offer lots of fiber to help diversify the gut microbiome.^{[4] [5]} The fruit also contains plenty of vitamin C (for healthy skin and a robust immune system) and copper to help the body absorb iron from other foods. The skin of asian pears in particular is rich in antioxidants—beneficial compounds that combat bodily stress and help keep us healthy.^[6]

Asian pears remain firm and crunchy, even when fully ripe. Look for fruit that feels heavy for its size and smells lightly sweet and floral near the stem, and skip any with soft, mushy spots. Because even the ripe fruit stays firm and crisp, asian pear should be cooked until soft for babies starting solids.

Small amounts of asian pear juice may be shared as a drink after 12 months of age. That said, it can be beneficial to wait for when a child is older to regularly share juice and other sugary drinks. Research suggests that regular intake of juice and other sweet drinks tends to increase the risk of dental cavities and take up space in the belly, which may decrease a child's motivation to eat other foods at mealtime and may negatively affect the child's growth over time. However, occasional servings of juice after one year of age generally isn't a cause for concern. Learn more about serving juice to babies and toddlers.