Pear

Pears may be introduced when baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months old, as long as the fruit is very soft and ripe or cooked until soft.

Pears are a potential choking hazard, so keep reading to learn how to serve safely to babies.

Pears originated in Asia thousands of years ago and spread from there to cool, temperate regions in Europe and beyond. While no pear varieties are native to the Americas, they became incredibly popular in the Northeast in the 19th century and are still grown throughout the continent today. There are thousands of pear varieties, some round like an apple and some with an elongated top and bulbous bottom, and in colors ranging from brown to deep copper to green to nearly white. Some pears are typically eaten fresh out of hand, while others are only used in cooking or to make perry, the pear equivalent of apple cider.

Yes. Pears are rich in fiber to help baby’s gut microbiome flourish and support baby’s bowels to move things along, plus they contain a great amount of vitamin K and a dash of other nutrients such as potassium and vitamin C. Pear skin is notably high in beneficial antioxidants so keep the skin on the fruit, even if baby spits it out. 

Can’t get fresh pears? Canned or frozen pears are just fine, too. When possible, look for canned pears that are free from added sugar, such as those preserved in water. Canned pears preserved in a light syrup or fruit juice can be rinsed with water before serving to baby, to help reduce sugar content a bit.

Yes. Pears, because they can be firm and slippery, are a choking hazard. To reduce the risk, steam, poach, or cook pears until soft and easily pierceable by a fork. Alternatively, you can offer very ripe, raw pear halves or ruler-thin slices for baby to self-feed. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals. For more information on choking, visit our sections on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

No. Allergies to pears are uncommon, but have been reported. Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen food allergy syndrome), and particularly those with sensitivities to birch tree pollen, may be sensitive to pears. Individuals sensitive to other foods of the Rosaceae family, such as apricots, almonds, and plums may also have a similar experience with pears. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Cooking, canning, or peeling pears can help minimize and even eliminate the reaction.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity on its own for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

Yes, if the pear is firm. Simmer pear halves in water, steam, or bake until soft. If the pear is very soft and ripe (it should mash easily with slight pressure), you can skip cooking and offer baby large pieces that are easy to hold on to. 

No. Juice of any kind should not be given to babies under 12 months of age, unless directed to do so by a health provider in very specific circumstances. It is best to wait to serve any kind of juice until age two, and even then, to limit the amount offered to minimize sugar (including natural sugar) in a child’s diet. Technically speaking, small amounts of juice (less than 4 ounces a day, ideally diluted with water to reduce sweetness) may be safely offered after a child’s first birthday, but there are many benefits to waiting. Regular and excessive consumption of sweet beverages may reduce the diversity of foods and nutrients consumed and may increase the risk of dental caries. Plus, pears consumed in their whole form are more nutritious than the juice.

Yes. Pears are rich in fiber and fluid, which help support healthy gut bacteria, bulk up poop, and hydrate the intestines for healthy digestion and bowel movements. Pears (along with other fruits like peaches and plums) also contain sorbitol, a type of carbohydrate that promotes bowel movements. Certain high-fiber foods can produce gas and, at times, diaper blowouts; while this is normal, it can be uncomfortable for baby. To minimize digestive discomfort, introduce high-fiber foods like pears gradually and regularly in baby’s diet as tolerated. Remember that pooping patterns can vary significantly from baby to baby. If you have concerns about baby’s pooping and digestive function, talk to your pediatric healthcare provider. If you have concerns about baby’s pooping and digestive function, check out our page on knowing when to worry about baby’s poop and, as always, talk to your pediatric healthcare provider.