Quebec’s maple syrup producers’ federation has raised concerns in court documents about Steve Bourdeau, the producer implicated in a recent counterfeit maple syrup scandal, potentially attempting to resell fraudulent syrup that has been returned to him by retailers. The Quebec Federation of Maple Syrup Producers (PPAQ) has formally requested the Quebec food marketing regulator, the Régie des marchés agricoles et alimentaires du Québec, to conduct a thorough investigation into Bourdeau’s operations, halt his business activities, and confiscate all his syrup.
The scandal was initially exposed by Radio-Canada’s Enquête program on April 2, revealing that five cans of Bourdeau’s syrup sold in grocery stores in Quebec and Ontario were found to contain over 50% cane sugar, despite being labeled as “pure maple syrup.” Following this revelation, most retailers promptly removed Bourdeau’s products from their shelves and offered refunds to customers.
According to documents submitted to the regulator, PPAQ inspectors visited Bourdeau’s sugar bush on April 16 and discovered pallets of syrup cans returned to him by suppliers. Bourdeau’s staff was observed transferring the syrup from the cans into larger containers. When asked about his plans for the syrup, Bourdeau reportedly responded, “I’ll find a way to get rid of it.”
The PPAQ asserts that Bourdeau’s intentions are evident and expresses concern that he may still be selling adulterated maple products despite the negative publicity surrounding his activities, which could harm the reputation of all maple producers in Quebec. The federation has labeled Bourdeau as a “notorious and repeat offender,” citing previous regulatory violations by him and his company.
In its legal filing, PPAQ demands the seizure of all Bourdeau’s syrup, a halt to his syrup production and marketing activities, and the collection of $190,000 in fines and outstanding contributions from him. The federation also seeks permission for a comprehensive investigation into Bourdeau’s operations over the past three years, compelling him to provide necessary documentation and answer inquiries.
Bourdeau has not yet responded to the allegations outlined in the court documents. In an earlier response to Enquête’s report on the counterfeit syrup, Bourdeau hinted that the syrup in question may have originated from one of his out-of-province suppliers.