Pure maple syrup is classified by a grading system determined by translucence (color) and flavor intensity. The grading scale was recently reworded by the USDA and is as follows:
Grade A Golden Delicate Taste (formerly Grade A Light Amber) – Light syrup with a mild, sweet maple flavor.
Grade A Amber Rich Taste (formerly Grade A Medium Amber) – Moderately light syrup with a sweet maple flavor.
Grade A Dark Robust Taste (formerly Grade A Dark Amber) – Darker syrup with a sweet, rich maple flavor.
Grade A Very Dark Strong Taste (formerly Grade B) – Dark syrup with a sweet, very robust maple flavor.
While pure maple syrup is a sweet addition to the diet, it has been shown to contain less actual sugar than many other syrups.
All grades of syrup are naturally delicious.
It has been historically recommended to use lighter syrup as table syrup and darker syrup for baking applications. However, more recent research suggests many consumers show a preference for the more pronounced robust flavor of the darker syrups. The good news is that everyone has their personal preference and that there is no wrong choice.
Pure maple syrup is the liquid food derived from concentrating and heat-treating sap from the maple tree (Acer).The solids (sugar) content of the finished maple syrup shall not be less than 66% sugar by weight. Anything less is not pure maple syrup. No other sugars, syrups, additives or preservatives can be added to pure maple syrup either. Maple syrup is a natural sweetener.
Maple syrup is for more than waffles and pancakes! It can be used as a flavorful sweetener in a variety of recipes or to add a delicious and beautiful glaze to almost any dish. Its use is limited only by the users' imagination! Have you thought about drizzling maple syrup over your favorite ice cream or perhaps some warm biscuits or scones?
Always store pure maple syrup in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container. Pure maple syrup in sealed containers may be stored in the refrigerator for up to one year. Once opened, changes to the syrup's color and flavor can be expected within six to eight months. Use syrup stored in plastic containers within three to six months to avoid quality loss. Do not store maple syrup with other items that may have strong odors as it can pick up those odors and lose quality.
You may freeze maple syrup. To freeze, pour it into freezable glass jars, making sure to leave a one-inch space at the top. Always seal jars tightly. Freeze immediately. Unopened frozen syrup maintains quality and flavor for an extended period of time.
It takes approximately 42 to 45 gallons of maple sap to make one gallon of maple syrup.
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Serving Size |
1 tbsp (20g) |
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Nutrients |
Amount |
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Total Calories |
52 |
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Protein |
0g |
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Carbohydrates |
13g |
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Dietary Fiber |
0g |
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Total Sugars |
12g |
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Total Fat |
0g |
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Saturated Fat |
0g |
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Cholesterol |
0mg |
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Minerals |
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Calcium |
13mg |
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Sodium |
2mg |
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Iron |
0mg |
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Pure maple syrup does not contain preservatives, so store it in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container to prevent mold growth.
Follow the safe food guidelines for all fresh produce.
Using Maple Syrup as a Sweetener Replacement
Selecting, Serving and Storing Maple Syrup
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