I wouldn't throw them out. I haven't candied plums but my guess is these fruit had some hard or fibrous spots inside. It's probably been penetrated by the syrup but doesn't develop the texture or appearance of normal fruit. Just my guess.

I certainly wouldn't throw them out. Actually, with all that sugar I doubt there'd be spoilage but just in case, I do often keep my fruit in the freezer in the syrup and when ready to use drain. I use these fruits as ingredients in cakes or puddings and don't finish the drying and sugaring. They are wonderful too. Leftover syrup can be canned and used for beverages with sparkling water or to baste cake layers before frosting. Adds another element of flavor and assists in retention of moisture.

Carol

Thanks Carol. I do have a nice plum cake recipe - these may end up there instead of in my holiday candy assortment (which was the intent).

The pears, however are either getting sliced and drizzled with chocolate or becoming part of my pear-hazelnut truffles.

Elaina