Around the World in 40 Fruits – Volume 28 – By Dr. Marli Botha – Article 28 of 40
By Dr. Marli Botha
The La France pear, a specific variety, was once praised by a Frenchman for its deliciousness and suitability as a representative fruit of France. In Belgium pears holds a significant position in the country’s culture and economy – Pears are considered the “fourth national treasure” alongside chocolate, beer, and diamonds.
Let’s bite into this botanical beauty – where sweetness meets sophistication, and heritage meets harvest.
- There are over 3000 varieties of pears worldwide. Not all pears are pear-shaped. In fact, Asian pears (also called Nashi pears) look almost exactly like apples.
- Pears are a part of the rose family.
- Pear tree wood is often times used to construct musical instruments, furniture, and other wooden décor.
- Pears contain essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, copper and iron. The copper in pears helps your body absorb other important minerals, while iron is vital for preventing anemia.
- Before tobacco became available in Europe (which happened after Christopher Columbus’s 1492 voyage), pear leaves were the top choice for smokers.
