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How long does pears last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Pantry / counter
5 days
Counter to ripen — most pears sold underripe
Refrigerator
2 weeks
Once ripe
The short answer
Pears lasts as long as you store it correctly — which can mean anywhere from a few days on the counter to a year in the freezer. The numbers above represent best quality per USDA and FDA guidelines, not absolute safety limits.
Why these numbers vary
Sweet pomes. Storage life depends on temperature consistency, humidity, packaging, and how fresh it was when you got it. Refrigerators that swing between 38°F and 45°F shave days off these numbers; vacuum-sealing or freezing extends them.
How to tell if pears is bad
- Mushy throughout
- Brown spots inside
- Fermented smell
Storage tips
- Ripen at neck — gentle pressure should yield
- Refrigerate when ripe to halt ripening
- Bartlett ripens fast; Bosc/Anjou slowly
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Frequently asked questions
How long does pears last in the pantry / counter?
Pears lasts 5 days in the pantry / counter. Counter to ripen — most pears sold underripe
How long does pears last in the refrigerator?
Pears lasts 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Once ripe
How can you tell if pears is bad?
Watch for: Mushy throughout; Brown spots inside; Fermented smell.