Maine Laws Defines 'Pure' Maple Syrup

Associated Press reported today, "Gov. John Baldacci signed legislation to clarify the legal definition of 'pure maple syrup' to help consumers decide whether they're getting the real thing.
The new law 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."

According to the report, the bill was advanced by the Maine Maple Producers. The purpose of the bill, as per The Maine Farm Bureau was to help protect Maine's maple syrup industry.

"Maple sugar producers say that if there's too much sugar in syrup, it can crystallize shortly after sale. The new law helps to ensure that when someone buys 'pure maple syrup,' that's what they're getting," reported AP.

Jon Olson of the Maine Farm Bureau said, "The new law will more closely regulate the import of products labeled 'pure maple syrup' into Maine."

Maine is the second largest producer of maple syrup in the U.S. "Vermont, the nation's No. 1 maple syrup producer, has rules similar to Maine's new standard."