Michigan is a proud maple syrup state. The Michigan Maple Syrup Association alone represents more than 150 members, over 150,000 taps, and annual production exceeding 50,000 gallons of pure maple syrup. With so many quality producers across the Lower and Upper Peninsulas, shoppers often wonder which grade or style of Michigan pure maple syrup is right for their kitchen. Understanding the grading system and knowing what each producer offers can help you pick the bottle that matches your taste, cooking habits, and values.

What Does “Grade” Mean for Michigan Maple Syrup?

Maple syrup grades are based on color and flavor. The lighter the syrup, the more delicate the maple taste. Darker syrups have a stronger, more caramelized flavor. In the United States, the USDA classifies Grade A maple syrup into four color classes: Golden, Amber, Dark, and Very Dark. While all four can be found from Michigan producers, the research available specifically highlights Grade A Amber. For example, Eden Foods sells a certified organic Michigan Grade A Amber Maple Syrup in 32-fluid-ounce and 16-fluid-ounce bottles. Amber syrup is a middle-of-the-road choice with a rich, balanced maple flavor that works well on pancakes, waffles, and in baking. If you prefer a more subtle taste, look for a lighter golden syrup. For a bolder flavor that stands up to coffee or barbecue sauces, a dark or very dark syrup may suit you better.

Organic vs. Conventional Michigan Pure Maple Syrup

Michigan offers both organic and conventionally produced maple syrup. If eating organic is important to you, several producers are certified. Eden Foods, Michigan Maple Farms, and Friske Farm Market all sell USDA Certified Organic maple syrup. Eden Foods’ organic syrup is produced in northern Michigan and should be refrigerated after opening. Michigan Maple Farms offers USDA Certified Organic syrup with free shipping on orders over $100. Friske Farm Market sells 100% pure organic maple syrup, including a 3.4-ounce leaf-shaped bottle for $12.99. On the other hand, producers such as Kasza Sugar Bush and Doodle’s Sugarbush do not explicitly market organic certification on their websites. Both still offer high-quality Michigan pure maple syrup, and many customers choose them for their flavor and local sourcing rather than organic labeling. Your choice between organic and conventional depends on your personal priorities and budget.

Comparing Michigan Maple Syrup Producers and Products

Each Michigan maple syrup producer brings something different to the table. Knowing what is available can help you select the right bottle for your needs.

Friske Farm Market (Ellsworth)

Located at 10743 US Highway 31, Ellsworth, MI 49729, Friske Farm Market offers 100% pure organic maple syrup. Their product line includes a small 3.4-ounce leaf bottle priced at $12.99, making it a popular gift or sampler size. Friske also operates with summer hours: Monday through Thursday 9 to 7, Friday and Saturday 9 to 8. Their syrup is USDA Certified Organic, and they are a good option if you want to buy in person while visiting northern Michigan.

Kasza Sugar Bush (Shelby)

Kasza Sugar Bush produces its maple syrup from Western Michigan sap in Shelby, Michigan. They offer pure Michigan maple syrup in several container styles and price ranges. Their glass jars run from $12.29 to $64.99, plastic jugs start at $3.58 and go up to $59.99, and glass ovals are available for $7.99. Kasza focuses exclusively on pure syrup with no added ingredients or organic certification listed. Their variety of sizes makes them a flexible choice for households that use syrup in different quantities.

Eden Foods (Northern Michigan)

Eden Foods sells certified organic Michigan Grade A Amber Maple Syrup. Their 32-fluid-ounce bottle costs $20.80, and the 16-fluid-ounce bottle is $12.69. That works out to roughly $0.65 per ounce for the larger size, making it one of the more economical options per ounce in this group. Eden Foods emphasizes traditional tapping methods and the specific climate conditions required for maple syrup production. Their syrup is produced in northern Michigan and, like all pure maple syrup, should be refrigerated after opening to maintain freshness.

Michigan Maple Farms

Michigan Maple Farms offers USDA Certified Organic maple syrup along with infused maple syrups, maple sauces, jams, and confections. Their product line includes more than just plain syrup, so if you are looking for flavored options such as cinnamon or vanilla infused syrup, this is a producer to consider. All their products are made from pure maple syrup. They also provide free shipping on orders over $100, which can be a benefit for bulk buyers or gift shoppers.

Doodle’s Sugarbush

Doodle’s Sugarbush sells 100% pure Michigan maple syrup, along with maple candy and gourmet gifts. They ship nationwide, making them a convenient choice for customers outside Michigan. Their website does not list organic certification, but they focus on pure, high-quality syrup from Michigan sources.

Schramm’s Mead (Kingsley)

Schramm’s Mead, best known for its mead, also produces premium 100% pure maple syrup in Kingsley, Michigan. They offer the syrup in 8-ounce, 16-ounce, and 32-ounce sizes. This is a good option for those who want to support a northern Michigan producer that combines syrup production with other craft food and beverage items.

Price and Value Considerations

Maple syrup prices vary widely depending on container size, packaging type, and organic certification. Below is a comparison of prices from the research provided. Note that some producers offer multiple sizes, and prices are as listed at the time of the research.

When comparing prices, consider the cost per ounce. Eden Foods’ 32-ounce bottle at $20.80 works out to about $0.65 per ounce, while Friske’s 3.4-ounce leaf bottle is around $3.82 per ounce. The smaller bottle is clearly more expensive per ounce, but it makes a nice gift or a sampler. Kasza’s plastic jug starting at $3.58 is likely a small size, but the exact volume is not specified in the available information. Always check the size before purchasing to get the best value for your use.

Experiencing Michigan Maple Syrup in Person

If you want to taste or buy Michigan pure maple syrup directly from the source, you can plan a visit during the annual Michigan Maple Weekend. The Michigan Maple Syrup Association hosts these open-house events each spring. For 2025, the dates are: Southern Lower Michigan on March 21–22, Northern Lower Michigan on March 28–29, and Upper Michigan on April 11–12. Many sugar bushes welcome visitors to see tapping, boiling, and bottling operations, and they usually offer samples and sales. The MMSA also organizes a Fall Tour; the 2026 tour will be held in the Eastern Upper Peninsula on September 18–19. These events are a great way to meet producers and find the perfect syrup for your table.

In addition, Friske Farm Market in Ellsworth is open year-round with summer hours as noted. Other producers like Kasza Sugar Bush and Schramm’s Mead may have on-site retail or online ordering. For those who cannot travel, most of these producers ship nationwide.

Supporting Michigan Maple Syrup Producers After the 2025 Ice Storm

The 2025 ice storm caused significant damage to maple trees and infrastructure in some parts of Michigan. In response, the Michigan Maple Syrup Association established an Ice Storm Relief Fund to help affected producers. Iron Fish Distillery and Grand Traverse Pie Company have supported this fund. When you purchase Michigan pure maple syrup from an MMSA member, you are directly contributing to the resilience of the local maple syrup community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grade is most Michigan maple syrup?

Many Michigan producers offer Grade A syrup. For example, Eden Foods sells Grade A Amber, which has a medium-rich flavor. Other grades like Golden, Dark, and Very Dark are also produced, though the research specifically confirms Amber from one source. If you are unsure, Grade A Amber is a versatile choice for everyday use.

Is Michigan maple syrup organic?

Not all Michigan maple syrup is organic. Producers such as Eden Foods, Michigan Maple Farms, and Friske Farm Market are USDA Certified Organic. Others like Kasza Sugar Bush and Doodle’s Sugarbush do not list organic certification on their sites. Check the label or producer website to confirm if organic is important to you.

How long does Michigan pure maple syrup last?

Pure maple syrup has a long shelf life if stored properly. Eden Foods recommends refrigerating after opening. Unopened syrup can be kept in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within a few months to maintain the best flavor. Mold can form if moisture gets in, but it can be safely skimmed off.

Where can I buy Michigan pure maple syrup in person?

You can visit producers directly or during Michigan Maple Weekend. Friske Farm Market in Ellsworth, Michigan, is one option with regular hours. Other sugar bushes like Kasza Sugar Bush in Shelby may have on-site sales. Check the Michigan Maple Syrup Association website for a list of participating farms and their open hours.

Choosing a Michigan pure maple syrup comes down to the grade, flavor, production methods, and price that fit your kitchen. Whether you pick a light golden syrup for delicate drizzling, a rich amber from Eden Foods, a plastic jug from Kasza for everyday use, or an organic bottle from Michigan Maple Farms, you are getting a product made from real maple sap collected by local families. Explore the options, attend a Maple Weekend event, and enjoy the taste of northern Michigan in every pour.