Why do you package in glass containers?
The primary characteristic you want in a container material is inertness—that is, you want a material that holds tightly to its own molecules and does not let them go floating off into the food or drink touching the container. Because of its inherent qualities, glass is the best choice, followed closely by porcelain, ceramic, and stainless steel.
What is the problem with plastic containers?
Several research studies have found that when plastic comes in contact with certain foods, molecules of the chemicals in the plastic can leach into the food or beverage.
Phthalates are plasticizers used to make plastic products more flexible. Their effect on human health is increasingly coming into question.
When are maple trees tapped?
Typically, we begin tapping in mid-February and continue until the end of March.
What are the health benefits of maple syrup?
100% pure Maple Syrup is an excellent source of manganese, zinc and calcium. Zinc and manganese are important to the immune system. Many types of immune cells appear to depend upon zinc for optimal function. The trace mineral manganese is an essential cofactor in a number of enzymes important in energy production and antioxidant defenses. For example, the key oxidative enzyme superoxide dismutase, which disarms free radicals produced within the mitochondria (the energy production factories within our cells), requires manganese. One ounce of maple syrup supplies 22.0% of the daily value for this very important trace mineral.
Where does the maple sugar come from?
Maple sugar is produced in the leaves during photosynthesis. It is transported into the wood and stored during the winter, mostly in the form of carbohydrates. It is then converted to sucrose and dissolved in the sap.
Are maple trees native to Iowa?
Yes, Iowa has several varieties of native maple trees.
What is the difference between conventional store Maple Syrup and Sweet Maple Farms 100% pure Maple Syrup?
The most common maple syrup sold in supermarkets is composed of corn syrup with 20% maple syrup sugar, artificial flavor and color and two preservatives.
Isn’t all maple syrup “100% natural?”
No!
Various techniques have been used to speed up or increase the collection of sap. Paraformaldehyde pellets may be inserted into the tap holes to kill germs and prevent sap from clotting and clogging the holes. Some residues of this poison may be present in the maple syrup and the treatment may also shorten the lifespan of the trees. Another potential hazard in maple syrup is excess lead concentration. The syrup can pick up lead from the seams of metal containers used for storage and packaging. If the syrup is sold in glass bottles, the risk will be minimized.
You are guaranteed that at Sweet Maple Farms we use no chemicals on our trees and all of our equipment is either glass or lead-free, food grade stainless steel.
Why is 100% pure maple syrup better for you?
Pure maple syrup is composed of balanced sugars, minerals, vitamins and amino acids which makes it unique from other sweeteners. The majority of the minerals making up pure maple syrup are potassium, calcium, magnesium, and manganese.
What is the difference between “raw” and “processed” honey?
Raw, unprocessed honey is a superfood that provides antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, carbohydrates, and phytonutrients. According to the National Honey Board (NHB), (http://www.honey.com) , 82 percent of households currently use processed honey, which has been heated and pasteurized, and can contain botulism and High Fructose Corn Syrup, (HFCS). Processed honey is not as antibacterial, as raw honey, and is dangerous for diabetics and infants under 12 months old.
What are the health benefits of honey?
- Different varietals of honey possess a large amount of friendly bacteria (6 species of lactobacilli and 4 species of bifidobacteria), which may explain many of the “mysterious therapeutic properties of honey.”
- Honey may promote better blood sugar control.
- Experimental evidence indicates that consumption of honey may improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity compared to other sweeteners.
- Honey has been shown to be a more effective cough suppressant for children ages 2-18 than dextromethorphan.
- Honey boosts immunity.
- 32% of the cancer patients involved in the above immunity research reported improved quality of life.
First International Symposium on Honey and Human Health