4255 Prickly Pear

"A Spiny Delight with Endless Possibilities"

Prickly Pear, also known as Opuntia, is a vibrant and nutritious fruit native to the Americas, featuring an edible cactus pad covered with fine spines and offering a refreshing flavor.

Also known as: Prickly Pear, Opuntia, Barbary Fig, Indian Fig

Botanical name: Opuntia spp.

Prickly Pear illustration

Quick Facts

PLU Code

4255 (4-digit conventional)

Category & Size

FruitsCactus Pear (Prickly Pear)All Sizes

Origin

South America and the southern regions of North America

Storage Temperature

5-10°C (41-50°F)

Shelf Life

7-14 days

Status

Approved

About Prickly Pear

Prickly Pear is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it an excellent addition to a healthy diet and a popular ingredient in jams, jellies, and other food products.

Nutrition Information

Prickly Pear is low in calories and rich in nutrients, particularly vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For every 100 grams of edible part of Prickly Pear fruit, the nutrition facts are as follows:

Energy is approximately 41 kilocalories,

Carbohydrates make up about 9.6 grams,

Fiber content is about 0.4 gram per 100 grams of the fruit,

Sugar is about 4.2 grams per 100 grams,

Protein content is negligible at about 0.7 gram,

Vitamin C is about 14.3 milligrams,

Potassium content is about 176 milligrams,

Magnesium content is about 58 milligrams,

Phosphorus content is about 10 milligrams, and

Manganese content is about 0.3 milligram

Storage & Handling

Low to moderate temperature and high humidity storage to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss

Optimal Storage Conditions:
Temperature: 5-10°C (41-50°F)
Humidity: 80-90%
Packaging: Breathable packaging, perforated bags or ventilated containers
Shelf Life: 7-14 days
Storage Notes: Avoid direct sunlight and maintain good air circulation to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage

Search PLU Codes

Tags
4255Prickly PearOpuntia spp.All SizesFruitsCactus Pear (Prickly Pear)Approved
Commodity Details
Commodity Key:
cactus-pear-prickly-pear
Variety:
Created:
December 1999
Last Updated:
December 2023
PLU Code Reference

4-digit codes: Conventionally grown produce

5-digit codes starting with 9: Organic produce

5-digit codes starting with 8: Originally intended for GMO (rarely used)


PLU codes streamline checkout processes, improve inventory management, and provide consistency across different stores. The system was developed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS).