Metal maple syrup cans with odor discovered, discontinued
Plastic and glass containers of maple syrup are not impacted
WATERBURY - The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets has advised that distribution of certain pint and quart metal syrup cans be discontinued.
This action follows a State examination of empty metal syrup cans with an odd odor. The cans were brought to the attention of the Vermont Maple Industry Council by a maple syrup producer.
State officials tested the cans and caps extensively and determined that the odor was caused by trace amounts of petroleum distillate compounds. The Vermont Department of Health said the risk is negligible. The taste and smell of the syrup tested was not affected. The distributor, New England Container Company, has agreed to cease and desist all sales and distribution of the cans.
Less than 15 percent of syrup produced this year in Vermont has been packaged in these metal cans. Plastic and glass containers, in which most of Vermont's 2008 syrup has been packaged, are not impacted by this advisory. Nevertheless, the Agency of Agriculture said protecting the purity of one of Vermont's signature agricultural crops is a top priority.
"There are few things we take more seriously here in Vermont than the purity of our maple syrup and the strength of our maple industry. That is why we are acting aggressively to isolate and address this issue," said Roger Allbee, Secretary of Agriculture.
The pint and quart metal cans were distributed in various states and Canada by New England Container Company in Swanton, Vermont. Only New England Container Company cans distributed in 2008 are affected.
The Agency of Agriculture has worked aggressively with the distributor who today signed an Assurance of Discontinuance. This agreement requires New England Container Company to cease and desist all sales and distribution of metal cans that were acquired from Allstate Can Corporation, an out of state supplier. The agreement also requires that a complete list of customers be provided to the Agency of Agriculture who will assist in notifying customers of New England Container Company of the issue.
The Agency of Agriculture reminds maple syrup producers to inspect containers before packaging syrup or other maple products to ensure they are clean and sanitary and comply with Vermont maple law.
Maple syrup producers and consumers with questions about metal syrup cans should contact their distributor or the Consumer Protection Division of the Agency of Agriculture at 802-828-3458.