The Great Maple Syrup Heist: A Sticky Tale of Intrigue and Greed
The most Canadian crime that ever happened — the theft of approximately $18 million worth of maple syrup
What is the Great Maple Syrup Heist?
The Great Maple Syrup Heist, also known as the Quebec Maple Syrup Heist, is an infamous crime that unfolded in Canada, involving the theft of a substantial quantity of maple syrup from the Global Strategic Maple Syrup Reserve (GSMR) in Saint-Louis-de-Blandford, Quebec. This audacious heist not only captivated the public’s imagination but also shed light on the significance of maple syrup to Canadian culture and the lucrative nature of the industry.
The Background of the Heist
In Canada, maple syrup holds a special place as a national icon and a symbol of Canadian identity. Quebec is the world’s leading producer of maple syrup, accounting for over 70% of the global supply. The Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers (FPAQ) manages the industry and regulates the syrup’s production and distribution.