Is it still safe to eat a pear with a black heart cut open

It is usually not recommended to continue consuming pears that have black hearts after being cut open. Blackheart may be caused by oxidation reactions, low-temperature frostbite, or mold growth, and the toxins produced by mold growth may be harmful to health. The most common reason for the blackening of pear flesh is oxidation reaction. After the pear is cut open, the polyphenols in the flesh come into contact with air and undergo enzymatic browning, gradually darkening in color. This oxidation reaction does not produce harmful substances, but may affect taste and nutritional value. If the black heart area is small and there is no mold or odor, it can be consumed in the short term after removing the discolored part, but the flavor will significantly decrease. If the black heart is accompanied by mold stains, a sour smell, or a softened texture, it may be caused by mold contamination. Moldy pears may produce toxins such as penicillin, which cannot be completely destroyed by high-temperature cooking. Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and even poisoning symptoms, especially for immunocompromised individuals such as children and the elderly, with a higher risk. Pears stored improperly or damaged by collisions are more prone to mold growth. If a large black core area is found, it should be discarded directly.

Pears should be stored in a damp environment in daily life, and should be consumed as soon as possible after cutting or sealed and refrigerated. When making a purchase, pay attention to the absence of external damage to the fruit, and it is best to lightly press it for elasticity. If you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain and vomiting after ingesting moldy pears, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. After the fruit rots, the nutrients have been lost, so there is no need to risk consuming the spoiled parts in order to save.