Coombs Family Farms Organic Maple Syrup, Grade A Dark Color Robust Taste (formerly Grade B), 12 oz glass

Coombs maple syrup in this 12 oz glass bottle is 100% pure organic maple syrup, graded Grade A Dark Color, Robust Taste (the grade once called Grade B). Coombs Family Farms lists a single ingredient: organic maple syrup.

Who it suits

It suits people who want real maple instead of corn syrup pancake syrup, and bakers who like a stronger maple flavor in recipes. If you prefer a lighter, more delicate taste, a golden or amber grade may suit you better. It also works stirred into oatmeal topped with Manitoba Harvest hemp hearts. See more healthy pantry staples.

Comparing options? Our healthy pantry staples guide explains what to check on the label and spec sheet.

Key facts

• 100% pure organic maple syrup, Grade A Dark Color with robust taste, in glass (Whole Foods Market)
• Certified organic by QAI and kosher, with no artificial flavors, preservatives or dyes (Whole Foods Market)
• The brand notes this darker grade has a stronger flavor that chefs favor for cooking (Coombs Family Farms)
• A 1/4 cup serving lists 200 calories and 53 g of sugars; about 6 servings per bottle (Whole Foods Market)

What reviewers say

The Daily Meal tasted this exact grade and ranked it third, liking its molasses-like aroma and rich flavor on waffles and by the spoon, but it found the syrup fairly thin. Mashed looked at grocery syrups by sugar content, noted the family-run, sustainability-minded production, and reminded readers that one serving carries about 53 g of sugar.

Pros and cons

• Pro: One organic ingredient, no additives
• Pro: Rich, robust flavor for baking and breakfast
• Con: Reviewers found it fairly thin
• Con: High in sugar per serving

Cautions

• Concentrated sugar: 53 g per 1/4 cup. People managing blood sugar or diabetes should account for it.
• Darker and stronger than golden or amber grades.