Could maple water replace coconut water? Ontario producers hope so

The Rise of Maple Water: Ontario’s Next Big Beverage Trend

While the idea of drinking tree sap might seem unusual to many, Ontario’s maple producers are now eyeing maple water as the next must-try global beverage. Known for its rich, velvety maple syrup, Canada has long been a leader in the maple industry. However, the sap from which this syrup is derived—a clear, slightly sweet liquid with just 2% natural sugars—is gaining traction as a refreshing, low-sugar drink. This beverage, called maple water, is being championed by Ontario-based companies like Sap Sucker and White Meadow Farms, which are pioneering its transformation into a mass-market product. With its clean, refreshing taste and health-conscious appeal, maple water is poised to become a game-changer in the global beverage market.

From Tradition to Innovation: The Journey of Sap Sucker

For generations, maple farmers in Ontario have enjoyed the freshness of raw maple sap, often drinking it straight from the buckets before boiling it down into syrup. This tradition inspired Nancy Chapman, a passionate Ontario farmer, to launch Sap Sucker in 2015. The company’s senior business development manager, Alex Argiropoulos, shares the story of its creation: “Nancy grew up on a small family farm where they tapped trees for personal use. They drank the sap straight from the bucket before boiling it down into syrup. When she wanted to start a business, she thought, ‘How can we create something from this?’”

Since its inception, Sap Sucker has overcome the challenges of marketing maple water. The biggest hurdle? Maple sap is highly perishable, typically lasting only 48 hours before spoiling. However, with advanced filtration and pasteurization technologies, the company has managed to make maple water shelf-stable, expanding its reach across Canada and even internationally. Today, Sap Sucker’s maple water is enjoyed in countries like France and Japan, positioning itself as a healthier alternative to sugary drinks like coconut water.

A Healthier Alternative: The Appeal of Maple Water

Maple water’s appeal lies in its natural, wholesome profile. With only 2-4% sugar content, it is far less sweet than soda or even coconut water, making it a guilt-free choice for health-conscious consumers. As Alex Argiropoulos explains, “People love the clean, refreshing taste, with no lingering aftertaste like stevia or artificial sweeteners give you.”

White Meadow Farms, a fourth-generation maple syrup producer in Ontario’s Niagara region, is also exploring the potential of maple water. Amanda Bearing, a partner at the farm, believes that maple water could become a globally enjoyed beverage—if consumers are educated about its origins and benefits. “Outside of Canada, it’s not widely known how maple syrup is made and that it comes from the sap of a maple tree. Education is key to selling it globally,” she says.

Despite its growing popularity, maple water still faces challenges. Many consumers are unaware of what it is or where it comes from, making education a critical component of its marketing strategy. Ynez Giancola, vice-president of finance and operations at Sap Sucker, notes, “Consumers don’t necessarily understand what water from a tree is,” but she believes the unique niche of maple water sets it apart from other global beverage brands.

Ontario’s Thriving Maple Industry: A Foundation for Growth

Ontario’s maple syrup industry is already a powerhouse, producing some of the world’s best maple syrup and contributing significantly to Canada’s exports. Giancola highlights how maple production supports the Ontario economy and ensures a Canadian-based supply chain, which is particularly important in light of current trade dynamics. “With everything going on tariff-wise, we’re seeing a lot of extra support for Canadian production,” she says.

The success of maple syrup also provides a strong foundation for the growth of maple water. As more consumers seek natural, organic, and healthy products, maple water fits perfectly into this trend. Giancola and Argiropoulos are optimistic about the future, noting that the product is already gaining traction in national retailers. “We’re already seeing growth in urban centers,” Giancola says. “Customers are now looking for these types of natural, organic, and healthy products, and we fit right in there.”

Challenges and Opportunities: The Road Ahead for Maple Water

While the future of maple water looks promising, the industry still faces significant challenges. One major obstacle is the high initial cost of equipment needed to make maple sap shelf-stable. “For maple farmers, it’s a large upfront investment,” says Argiropoulos. Additionally, consumer education remains a critical factor in expanding the market. Many people outside of Canada are unaware of how maple syrup is made or that the sap itself can be consumed as a beverage.

Despite these challenges, the potential for maple water to complement the global beverage market is undeniable. With Ontario’s long history of maple syrup production and its reputation for quality, the province is well-positioned to lead the charge in this emerging industry. As awareness grows, particularly in urban centers, the demand for maple water is expected to increase. Whether maple water can rival the global popularity of coconut water remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: this trending beverage is only just beginning to make its mark.

The Future of Maple Water: A Global Phenomenon in the Making

As more producers like Sap Sucker and White Meadow Farms invest in innovative products and consumer education, maple water is poised to become the next big thing in the beverage world. “It could be the next big thing,” says Amanda Bearing of White Meadow Farms. With its unique taste, health benefits, and eco-friendly production process, maple water has the potential to resonate with consumers worldwide.

Ontario, with its rich history of maple syrup production and its forward-thinking producers, is at the heart of this movement. As the industry continues to grow, maple water could one day become a staple in households around the globe, offering a fresh twist on a centuries-old tradition. Whether you’re a health-conscious consumer or just someone looking for a new drink to enjoy, maple water is definitely worth keeping an eye on.