There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a stack of pancakes and watching thick, sweet, pure maple syrup dribble across the top and down the sides of the sweet treat. It’s a comfort food unlike any other, whether topped off with a cup of coffee or tall, cold glass of milk. Not only is it satisfying to the most discriminating palate, but it also reawakens childhood memories through olfactory and savory sensory stimulation.
Many manufacturers who have attempted to replicate natural breakfast syrups simply create versions that are edible and will sell well. They will frequently apply brand names that make an individual think they are getting the real thing and will even advertise the flavoring using terms like “authentic” and “all natural”, but there is a distinct difference between fake and real syrups. For those who have tried both, the real thing is very difficult to replicate.
A key to determining the difference between real and fake is to look at the label. If the bottle says it contains things like cellulose gum, caramel color, and potassium sorbate, it’s definitely fake. Although corn syrup with caramel color may make a product look like maple, it’s unquestionably not the real thing. Although these alternatives have a tendency to be less expensive, the most discernible difference is flavor.
Unfortunately, multi-million dollar corporations mislead shoppers and steal the market from farmers whose living depends on this industry. The hard work of the farmers is not recognized in the price of the final product. Often farmers lack the resources of large corporations for huge marketing campaigns, despite the fact that their product is better tasting as well as healthier. The last thing an individual needs is to put more chemicals into their bodies.
It’s true that the price of real syrup is higher. This can be difficult to fit into a tight budget. However, healthier alternatives are important, especially with growing children in the house. Breakfasts that include maple are a way of helping to make positive memories that last a lifetime, while keeping families healthy.
Pure maple syrup is normally unprocessed so it has many health benefits due to potentially valuable minerals that include potassium, copper, sodium, and calcium. It also has higher levels of antioxidants, which help prevent conditions such as heart disease, degenerative disorders, and cancer, as well as to boost the immune system and improve reproductive health. Additionally, it can be used in place of sugar in many recipes.
One of the best benefits is that this type of product is virtually fat free even though it is a form of simple carbohydrates. Although complex carbs are preferred, the other health benefits of maple have a tendency to offset the disadvantages, if use is limited. Additionally, it can cause tooth decay, just as any sugar does, so a dental-hygiene regimen that is consistent is important.
Pure maple syrup is graded to indicate sweetness and flavor. Grade A, for instance, is lighter in color which is less sweet and has a more subtle flavor. Grade B, on the other hand, is darker in color and has a higher mineral concentration. The latter is ideal for baking because it results in savory dishes that families love. Regardless of which is selected, however, there is nothing quite like real syrup when it comes to enhancing the taste of any food.