Buckwud Organic Intense Canadian Maple Syrup was named the best-tasting of five supermarket syrups, while Aldi's own-label version offered the best value for money.
Deputy Editor Millie Bull tested own-label syrups from Sainsbury's, Aldi and Co-op, plus branded options from Buckwud and Maple Crest, rating each on taste, cost and packaging. Each syrup was tasted straight from the bottle with a small spoonful.
How to spot genuine maple syrup
Genuine maple syrup contains just one ingredient: 100% pure maple syrup or maple sap. Extras such as corn syrup, high-fructose corn syrup, water or carob syrup indicate an imitation product. Bottles labelled 'maple-flavoured syrup' use maple flavouring rather than real maple syrup, while others may be blended with carob syrup to cut costs.
According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Grade A maple syrup must meet strict standards: no more than 68.9% solids by weight, a consistent colour, a good maple flavour and aroma, and no off-flavours, odours, cloudiness or sediment. Grade A is split into four colour categories: Golden, Amber, Dark, and Very Dark, as set out by Maple From Canada.
The five syrups tested
Buckwud Organic Intense Canadian Maple Syrup, £6.20 for 250g (£2.48 per 100g) at Sainsbury's, was the only dark syrup in the test. It had a deeper, caramel-like flavour that was lovely on its own and even better over pancakes, with a more pronounced maple taste that was less sweet. It won a 3-star award at the Great Taste Awards in 2022. The lid was easy to use and the classic bottle looked good. Score: 5/5.
Aldi Specially Selected 100% Pure Canadian Maple Syrup, £3.99 for 330g (£1.60 per 100ml), was the largest and cheapest of the five. It had a pleasant maple flavour with a hint of caramel and wasn't too sweet. The bigger bottle, easy flip-top lid and classic packaging were also praised. Score: 4/5.
Maple Crest Maple Syrup, £4 for 250g (£1.60 per 100g) at Sainsbury's, was similar to Buckwud's but slightly less intense. The screw-top lid was fiddly and prone to spills if not closed properly. It didn't feel quite as full-bodied as Buckwud's and lacked those caramel notes. Score: 3.5/5.
Sainsbury's Canadian Maple Syrup, Taste the Difference, £5.20 for 250g (£2.08 per 100g), had a nice aroma and a good maple flavour that wasn't overly sweet. The cap was easy to use and the texture was just right, though it felt slightly overpriced for a supermarket own-brand. Score: 3/5.
Co-op Pure Canadian Maple Syrup, £5.25 for 250g (£2.10 per 100g), was the least favourite. The maple flavour was there but not bold enough, reminding the tester more of a sugar syrup. The screw-top lid was fiddly and the price felt high for what you get. Score: 2.5/5.
The verdict
Buckwud Organic Intense Canadian Maple Syrup had the best flavour of the five, especially for those who enjoy a rich, caramel-tinged taste with a strong maple character. Aldi's Maple Syrup was the top pick among supermarket own-brands and offered the best value for money.
