It’s been a decade since the first “maple water” beverages made their debut in the U.S. market, including the still-popular DRINKmaple. But recently, there’s been a surge in potential for the product, as maple gains favor as an ingredient, along with new fixes for hydration.
Maple water, which contains minerals and electrolytes yet only a few grams of sugar, has a slightly sweet taste. The market has been growing since 2021, and is expected to grow from $335 million in 2021 to $3,017 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 31.62% during the forecast period of 2022 to 2030, according to Strait Research.
Although “sap” is known as the sticky stuff coming straight from the tree, what really comes out is pure water with only 2% sugar, according to Linda Halley, general manager of Gwenyn Hill Farm.
“Many people think that maple syrup flows from maple trees, but in fact it takes 40 gallons of maple water to boil down to make 1 gallon of syrup. Maple water is very hydrating and has electrolytes, minerals, polyphenols, antioxidants and prebiotics,” said Lauren Manaker, a registered dietitian in Charleston, S.C., and previous contributor for Drink Simple Maple Water.
“Potential benefits of maple water include enhanced rehydration following strenuous exercise, improved aerobic athletic performance, reduced inflammation, quicker post-exercise recovery, and improved blood sugar control,” said Rickelle Tallent, a Las Vegas registered dietitian nutritionist and performance nutrition coach.
Maple water is seen as a great alternative to some rehydration beverages and brands, especially those with higher sugar content. The product also appeals to consumers looking for environmentally sustainable practices in food and beverage production. The sap water removal process doesn’t hurt trees, and even encourages healthy forestry on producers’ land, according to Drink Simple’s website.
“Maple water tends to be more popular with athletes and active individuals due to its potential to improve athletic performance and recovery, but it really could be a great hydration option for anyone, especially those who struggle to drink enough plain water but don’t need or want to drink a hydration beverage that contains a lot of sugar or artificial sweeteners,” Tallent said, adding that it is typically a solid source for manganese and antioxidants.
Manaker is also seeing a consumer interest in maple, in general.
“As people continue to look for natural options, I expect to see the market maple water continue to grow. I also expect to see maple water used more and more as a natural functional ingredient in products like juice, coffee drinks, iced teas, wellness shots, sports drinks, elixirs, and even alcoholic beverages like beer and cocktails,” she said.
In the future, we may see more brands integrate the product into ice creams, smoothie products, soups, among other products. Industry experts confirm say the increasing number of available and healthy maple trees can support the demand, both in the U.S. and Canada. This means for producers ready to ramp up production, it might be a sweet time to go for it.