FOR the 14th year, December will see pear-lovers and growers around the world celebrating National Pear Month.
An initiative established by the US Department of Agriculture, National Pear Month aims to celebrate the fruit through implementing global promotions.
World Pear Day, held on December 1st, included pop-up sampling events for people to try out USA-grown pears across 24 countries, including China, Mexico and United Arab Emirates. With over 500 sampling events in the US, the day, which celebrated its third year running in 2018, even had its own hashtag: #WorldPearDay.
Speaking on the reason behind the day, President and CEO of Pear Bureau Northwest, Kevin Moffitt said it was a chance for people to get excited about the fruit.
“In its third year, we see the event as an entertaining and compelling activity raising pear enthusiasm and consumer engagement worldwide at the pinnacle of the pear season.”
At this time of year, pears are at their peak, and there are many varieties to choose from. There are over 3,000 different types of pears across the globe. In Oregon and Washington there are ten varieties of pears grown. These include Seckel, Starkrimson, Green Anjou, Red Anjou, Bosc, Comice, Concorde, Bartlett, Red Bartlett and Forelle.
Pears are filled with many nutritional benefits, including vitamin C, potassium and a good amount of fibre. The can be enjoyed as part of a meal, such as a pear and walnut salad, or as a simple, healthy snack. And with most pears sitting around 100 calories, they are a great alternative to other, less healthy snacks if you’re craving something sweet.
If you wish to learn more about pears, including pear facts and recipes, you can at: https://usapears.org/
