The Cornell Maple Program hosted the Maple Confections Academy from September 9-11 at Cornell AgriTech in Geneva, NY. This advanced training provided maple producers with the opportunity to take their maple production to the next level and expand into maple food manufacturing enterprises.
During the workshop sessions, participants engaged with Cornell experts on processing methodology, food safety, and shelf stability. They also gained hands-on experience with commercial equipment and processes and learned about the services offered at the Cornell Center of Excellence for Food and Agriculture.
Farm Ops provided four veterans with scholarships to the event. One participant shared, “This course greatly expanded my knowledge of food safety regulations and practices and what I need to do in order to sell to large stores. It was also a great opportunity to network with other producers who are working through the same issues. Also a good opportunity to learn about larger food processing equipment that I don’t normally have access to.”
Another attendee emphasized how the course would help them move forward in their maple business: “I will use what I learned in the course to be able to create value-added maple products to sell locally in NY. I was able to expand my knowledge greatly in food safety protocols and be connected with the appropriate resources and individuals to be able to answer future questions. Connecting with maple specialists in the Cornell Maple Program was also invaluable for me. This event was very motivating, and I am grateful for the opportunity. Thank you!”
For some, the course provided inspiration for future endeavors. One participant noted, “The course gave me some great ideas that in the future will be great to incorporate, but at this time is a bit further along than where I’m at.”
The Maple Confections Academy proved to be an impactful experience, equipping maple producers with the knowledge and connections needed to refine their craft and expand their businesses.
