What are melanoidins in maple syrup?
                                
                                
                                •
                                
                                
                        
                                    
                                    6 min read                                
                            
                                Maple syrup connoisseurs often notice that different grades of syrup have distinct colors and flavors, a phenomenon largely attributed to the formation of melanoidins. These complex brown pigments are the final products of the Maillard reaction, a non-enzymatic browning process that occurs when the sap is heated. Understanding what are melanoidins in maple syrup provides insight into the chemistry behind the diverse grades and nuanced flavors.