A scientist is paid to study maple syrup. He’s also paid to promote it.

Is maple syrup healthier than sugar? Our recent investigation helps explain why many may think so. Some of the supposed benefits of maple syrup can be linked to the findings of one biomedical researcher who has published more than three dozen studies extolling the power of maple syrup — and whose work has been partially bankrolled by the maple syrup industry. Together with The New York Times, we reviewed 15 years of Navindra Seeram’s studies and public statements and found that he exaggerated the significance of his findings to suggest that maple syrup could help prevent serious diseases. “We have to convince the consumer that this sugar is good for you,” he said at a maple syrup convention last fall. The Examination talked to three independent experts about claims that maple syrup has health benefits. Reporter Will Evans explains what the science shows.