Is it safe to eat pears with discoloration in the middle

If there is no odor or decay in the middle of a pear, it can generally be eaten. If there is obvious decay or mold, it is usually not edible. The discoloration in the middle of pears may be related to oxidation, low-temperature frostbite, or microbial infection. It is recommended to judge based on specific circumstances. The most common reason for pear flesh discoloration is oxidation reaction. After pear is cut or bumped, the flesh is exposed to air, and polyphenols come into contact with oxygen to undergo enzymatic browning, resulting in a darker color. This discoloration does not affect the safety of consumption, but the taste may slightly deteriorate. Pears with mild frostbite may also exhibit internal translucent browning, usually caused by cell rupture due to low refrigeration temperatures. In such cases, the discolored parts can still be consumed after removal. In rare cases, discoloration inside pears is caused by microbial infections. If the discolored part is accompanied by sticky, sour or moldy spots, it indicates that it has deteriorated and spoiled. Moldy pears may produce toxins such as penicillin, and even if the moldy part is removed, the mycelium may spread to other areas, posing a safety hazard when consumed. Especially for people with weaker immunity, it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or food poisoning. When storing pears in daily life, wrap them with plastic wrap to reduce oxidation, and keep the refrigeration temperature at around 4 degrees to avoid frostbite. Before consumption, check the texture and odor of the fruit pulp. If there is slight browning, the discolored part can be removed before consumption. If the moldy area exceeds one-third or emits an odor, it is recommended to discard it. Pears are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants. Reasonable consumption can help promote digestion, but spoiled fruits must be processed in a timely manner to avoid affecting health.