Recent investigations have revealed that counterfeit Quebec maple syrup is being sold on grocery store shelves. This alarming discovery originated when a journalist from Radio-Canada’s Enquête noticed an unusual taste in a maple syrup product purchased at a local grocery store.
Investigation Findings on Counterfeit Quebec Maple Syrup
The investigation traced the syrup to producer Steve Bourdeau from Saint-Chrysostome, located in the Montérégie region, southwest of Montreal. Bourdeau’s company, identified as 9227-8712 Québec inc., or as “Érablière Steve Bourdeau,” was implicated after an analysis of the syrup revealed concerning results.
Testing Reveals Sugar Content
Enquête purchased five cans from various stores and batches for testing at ACER, Quebec’s quality control laboratory for maple products. The results confirmed that all samples contained over 50% cane sugar, despite being labeled as “pure maple syrup.” Luc Lagacé, a microbiologist at ACER, stated, “This is not an accident. It’s deliberate.”
Bourdeau’s Business Practices
- Bourdeau claimed that his syrup was sold in hundreds of grocery stores, including major chains like IGA and Metro.
- Conversations with Bourdeau revealed his awareness of illegal practices, admitting he sometimes labeled syrup sourced from outside Quebec as “product of Quebec.”
- He indicated that his selling prices were significantly lower than competitors, suggesting that he had to resort to questionable practices to maintain his profit margins.
Accountability and Regulations
Isabelle Lapointe, head of the Quebec Federation of Maple Syrup Producers, emphasized the producers’ responsibility to meet provincial standards, regardless of where their syrup originates. Bourdeau, when confronted with these serious allegations, initially denied the results but later suggested that suppliers might be at fault.
Geneviève Clermont from ACER pointed out that while the bulk of Quebec’s syrup undergoes rigorous testing, there are gaps in regulation for syrup sold in cans directly to retailers, such as those from Bourdeau’s farm.
Consumer Advice and Future Actions
Consumer trust is essential in the maple syrup industry. If shoppers suspect counterfeits, they are encouraged to report to Quebec’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) or reach out to the producers’ federation. Furthermore, Bourdeau stated he plans to implement his own inspections while launching an investigation into the source of the falsified syrup.
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance and integrity in food production, especially for products as beloved as Quebec’s maple syrup. As the situation develops, consumers and regulators alike are urged to remain alert for issues surrounding maple syrup authenticity.
