Translating American and Canadian Maple Syrup Grades

Commonly asked question: I have purchased Canadian maple syrup before, and I like a specific grade. What grade is that equivalent to in US maple syrup grades?

Maple gradients are set on a light translucence scale, and different grade names are associated with the different amounts of light that pass through the maple syrup. The US and Canada agreed in the 1970's on the same light transmission qualities, so their grades can easily be transferred between systems. The syrup itself will be quite similar, simply the names the grade of syrup is called will differ. 

US Grade                    Equivalent           Canadian Grade

Grade A Light Amber                                      #1 Extra Light

Grade A Medium Amber                                          #1 Light

Grade A Dark Amber                                         #1 Medium

Grade B                                                                #2 Amber

Grade B                                                                   #3 Dark

Looking for help on choosing the right grade for your needs? View another of our guides-- Choosing the Right Grade of Maple Syrup for You