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Preserving Pears

Pears
Canned pears
Photo: Colorado State University Extension Flickr

Pears are a favorite fall fruit. There are several varieties that are suitable for canning.

Asian pears have a lower acid content (pH >4.6) and must be acidified with lemon juice to be canned safely. For best results, use the hot pack method and process in a water bath canner.

Other pears, such as Bartlett, Moonglow and Clapp’s Favorite, are also suitable for canning. These have enough natural acid that they do not need to be acidified for safety. Pear halves can be processed in a water bath canner or pressure canner. Use these instructions from the National Center for Home Food Preservation.

For more information on preserving pears, see Michigan Fresh: Using, Storing, and Preserving Pears.

 

About Karen Blakeslee

The Rapid Response Center was formed in 1995 as a resource for Kansas State University Research & Extension Agents. Resource topics included Food Science, Human Nutrition, Food Service, Textiles, Home Care and other consumer topics. Since that time, the Center has grown to be of valuable assistance to Kansas State University Extension Specialists in those areas.