The state of Maine is clarifying the legal definition of “pure maple syrup” to help consumers decide whether they’re getting the real thing.
The bill sets standards on how much sugar must be in syrup in order for it to be considered pure. It took effect immediately upon the governor’s signature Monday.
The Maine bill was advanced by that state’s Maple Producers.
Mary-Anne Kinney of Kinney’s Sugarhouse in Knox explains that if there’s too much sugar in syrup, it can crystallize shortly after sale.
Vermont is the nation’s leading producer of maple syrup and has similar rules.