Maple Water: Naturally Filtered Tree Sap Offering Light Hydration, Trace Minerals & Subtle Sweetness

Maple water is the **raw, minimally processed sap** collected from sugar maple trees in early spring before concentration into maple syrup. It is gently pasteurised or micro-filtered and packaged; some brands may evaporate a small portion to standardise flavour.

| | Amount | |---|---| | Calories | ~20 kcal | | Natural Sugars (mainly sucrose) | ~5 g | | Protein / Fat | 0 g | | **Manganese** | 0.1–0.3 mg (4–13% DV) | | Potassium | 40–65 mg (1–2% DV) | | Calcium | 15–25 mg | Trace polyphenols & organic acids (malic). Electrolyte content is **lower than coconut water** but higher than plain water for manganese.

- **Low-calorie hydration** with mild flavour encourages fluid intake. - Provides **manganese**, a cofactor in antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase). - Trace **polyphenols & organic acids** may contribute subtle antioxidant capacity. - Slight natural sweetness can help reduce reliance on sugary soft drinks.

- **Not a significant electrolyte replacement** for heavy sweating (low sodium & potassium) – use sports drinks or balanced meals for endurance needs. - Marketing can **overstate antioxidant or detox claims**—overall nutrient density is modest. - Natural sugars (though low) still count toward total intake if drinking multiple bottles. - Once opened, limited shelf life; unpasteurised versions require refrigeration and may ferment.

- Use instead of water in **smoothies, chia puddings or light porridges** to add subtle maple note. - Reduce gently to create a **light maple reduction** for glazing roasted root vegetables. - Freeze into ice cubes for coffee, tea or mocktails. - Starter liquid for **fermented beverages (water kefir)**—adds mild sugars for culture.

- Choose brands listing **100% pure maple sap** (avoid added flavours unless desired). - Prefer packaged products with clear harvest date or *Best Before* within 12 months. - Store unopened in cool dark place (often ambient shelf-stable if pasteurised). **Refrigerate after opening** and consume within 3–5 days. If sour or effervescent aromas develop, discard.

Maple sap collection **encourages preservation of mature forests**, providing economic incentive to maintain tree stands. Minimal processing = relatively low energy compared with concentrating syrup. Opt for brands using **recyclable packaging** and sustainable forestry certifications.

✔︎ Lightly sweet, low-calorie hydration ✔︎ Source of trace manganese & polyphenols ✖︎ Not a full electrolyte drink; modest nutrients—enjoy as flavourful water alternative.