Benefits of Maple Syrup

SASKATCHEWAN (CBC) - Quebec maple syrup producers are promoting the health benefits of the sticky treat.

One U.S. researcher has found 13 new antioxidant compounds in maple syrup, the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers says.

University of Rhode Island researcher Navindra Seeram, backed by $115,000 from the federation, the Conseil pour le développement de l'agriculture du Québec and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, presented his findings recently at the annual meeting of the American Chemical Society.

"Recent research findings, such as those by Dr. Seeram, reveal a whole array of bioactive compounds that promise to offer many health benefits," said federation marketing director Geneviève Béland.

A second study by Quebec researchers also found antioxidant compounds.

The producers are using Seeram's results to promote maple syrup in New York City.

Quebec makes close to 80 per cent of all the maple syrup produced in the world.