Pears Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Until ripe
then refrigerate
In the fridgeFridge
3–5 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
2 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
Quick answer
Yes. Pears last 3–5 days in the fridge and 2 months in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if pears are bad
Smell
Fermented, sour or musty odour.
Texture
Soft, mushy or leaking spots, or wrinkled skin with soft flesh.
Colour
Dark bruising that spreads, or browning inside.
Mould
White, grey or green fuzz — discard soft produce; cut firm produce generously.
Pears past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened pears 3–5 days in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Past the date
Pears past their best-by date are usually safe if stored well; check smell, look and taste before using.
How to keep pears fresh longer
- Until Ripe, then 1-2 days. Ripe is when this item is tender, fully developed and ready to eat.
- Timeline for refrigerator applies to ripe fruit.
- Freezing guidance applies to product when sliced, with lemon juice and sugar.
More about pears
FAQ
How long does it take for pears to go bad?
3–5 days in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can pears expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened pears 3–5 days in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad pears?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep pears from going bad?
Until Ripe, then 1-2 days. Ripe is when this item is tender, fully developed and ready to eat.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number