NY Maple Aroma Mystery Solved

The maple syrup-like smell that pervaded Manhattan at certain times in recent years, puzzling residents and government officials, came from a New Jersey factory, the New York Post reports. After a lengthy investigation, city officials today revealed that the aroma originated at the Frutarom fragrance factory, which produces ester, a substance used to make scents and food flavorings.

"Given the evidence, I think it's safe to say that the 'Great Maple Syrup Mystery' has finally been solved," Mayor Mike Bloomberg said. "The Health Department confirmed that the odor does not pose a health risk, but I am pleased to know that our smelling sleuths got to the bottom of this."