Canadian and US maple industry representatives came together in May in Croghan, New York to participate in a meeting of the International Maple Syrup Institute’s Board of Directors.   Members of the Board represent provincial and state maple associations, maple packers, maple equipment vendors and other maple industry stakeholders. An important objective of the Institute is to provide an industry-wide forum to share information and discuss issues facing the maple syrup industry. A significant feature of the meeting in May was sharing information regarding the 2009 maple crop.

Maple industry representatives reported that the 2009 maple crop was very good in most areas of Canada and the United States. Consequently, a good supply of maple syrup is currently available to satisfy market demand in North America as well as overseas.

Maple syrup is the first agricultural crop harvested and produced each year. It is a natural and 100% pure product, produced from sugar bushes which have been managed sustainably for generations. Maple producers place great value on their natural heritage and work very hard to maintain it and produce a high quality natural product. People from all walks of life visit local sugar bushes annually to experience the tradition and to taste the delicious maple syrup, butter, candy and other sweet maple treats. Maple syrup can be purchased directly from the producer at the farm, at farmers’ markets and in many retail stores in Canada and the United States. It is also available for purchase in Europe, Asia and some other countries.

Maple syrup contains natural minerals and vitamins important to maintaining good health, such as zinc, calcium, potassium, manganese, thiamin and ribovlavin. Other components such as phenols, known for their antioxidant properties, are also present which can be protective against cancer.

Pure maple syrup is a natural sweetener that can be used in a multitude of different ways. In addition to the well known traditional uses, such as pancakes served with syrup, it can be used as a natural sweetener in a wide variety of food recipes in both conventional and unconventional dishes.  

For further information contact:
Dave Chapeskie,
Executive Director,
International Maple Syrup Institute
Telephone: 613-658-2329
or your Provincial or State Maple Syrup Producers Association.