Obviously there's a cost-difference - pure Vermont maple syrup costs about four times more than corn-based syrup, in part because Congress lavishes tax giveaways on (mostly corporate) U.S. corn production. I think there's another subtle factor in play: It tastes worse, so it must be better for you, right? Nope: Corn-based syrup has just as many calories as real maple syrup.
When you're shopping, there's an instinct to grab for the huge cheap jug. But for the average person, how much syrup do you really need? A bottle of Massachusetts maple syrup in my refrigerator has lasted me well over a year. And as for families, aren't you better off teaching your kids to use the good stuff judiciously rather than letting them drown their pancakes in the cheap (but still high calorie) stuff?
Mmm, nothing like the real thing! And if you've ever seen the vast network of tubing strung through the woods, and the big tubs of maple sap that is collected and boiled down to a small amount of the sweet stuff, you'll be more than happy to pay what they ask!
ReplyDeleteGreat idea. Another great one. The Virginia Highland Maple Festival is the next two weekends, March 10-11 and 17-18, in Monterey, Va., in Highland County. Great fun. See how maple syrup is made and buy some of Virginia's finest.
ReplyDeleteGreat idea. For a better idea and some fun, get to Monterey, Va., this weekend and next, March 10-11 and 17-18, for the Virginia Highland Maple Festival. Watch maple syrup being made and buy some of Virginia's finest.
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