OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Jun 27, 2014) - Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release.
The Government of Canada is proposing amendments to the Maple Products Regulations to set federal maple syrup standards that benefit consumers and industry.
The proposed changes would harmonize the definition and grading system in the United States and Canada, and give consumers more consistent and relevant information about different varieties of maple syrup.
The new standards would result in the modernization of the current grades and colour classes of maple syrup introducing new flavour descriptors that will help consumers make more informed choices when buying maple syrup. For example, four revised colour classes and new taste descriptors will categorize pure maple syrup on a scale ranging from "Golden Maple Syrup with a delicate taste" to "very Dark Maple Syrup with a strong taste".
The proposed amendments to the Maple Products Regulations will be published in Canada Gazette, Part I on June 28, 2014.The CFIA is seeking input from consumers and industry on the proposed changes during the 75-day comment period, ending on September 10, 2014.
To help the Canadian maple industry transition to any new regulations resulting from this process, the CFIA is recommending a two-year transition period. This would allow industry to gradually implement any new requirements.
Quick Facts
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Canadian producers are responsible for 84 per cent of world maple syrup production, with the United States responsible for 16 per cent.
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These proposed amendments are based on recommendations from the International Maple Syrup Institute (IMSI) and feedback received during previous consultations with consumers and industry.
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The IMSI is a voluntary organization representing the Canadian and American maple syrup industries. The Institute has been working and consulting for several years on developing common grading standards for Canada and the United States.
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The Government of Canada is committed to providing more information for consumers so they can make informed food choices.
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"Canada is world renowned for its high-quality maple syrup and maple products. These proposed amendments will better support Canada's maple producers by helping to facilitate trade and meet consumer demand."
Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
"Not only will these amendments provide maple producers greater freedom to market their products internationally, they will make it easier for Canadian consumers to purchase the syrup they prefer. The new grades and colour classes will help Canadians make more informed choices when shopping for our high quality maple syrup."