Pears have 50 per cent more fibre than previously indicated, according to new labeling values by the US Food and Drug Administration.
"This is great news for consumers seeking tasty, nutritious sources of fibre," said Kevin Moffitt, chief executive officer of Pear Bureau Northwest, a non-profit organisation representing 1,600 Oregon and Washington pear growers.
A medium pear - about the size of a tennis ball - will now be labeled as containing six grammes of fibre - about 24 per cent of the recommended daily intake for most adults.
The new label raises the fibre level from 4g to 6g, potassium from 180mg to 190mg and carbohydrates from 25g to 26g.
The FDA has amended the nutrition labeling regulations of the 20 most frequently consumed raw fruits, vegetables and fish in the United States. The new regulations will officially take effect in January next year.
