The Vanilla Extract Scam: How to Spot Real Quality
Vanilla extract is a staple in kitchens worldwide, but did you know there’s a hidden scam in the industry? Many products labeled as vanilla extract may not be as high-quality as you think.
What Is Real Vanilla Extract?
According to the FDA, a genuine vanilla extract must contain:
- 100 grams of vanilla beans per liter
- 35% alcohol solution
This is called a 1-fold extract. Higher concentrations, like 3-fold extracts (300 grams of beans per liter), are also common for stronger flavor.
The Vanilla Extract Scam Explained
Here’s the problem: the “fold” only tells you how many beans were used, not their quality. A producer can use low-quality vanilla beans and still label the product as 1-fold extract, even if the flavor is weak.
How to Check for Quality
The easiest way is to look at the vanillin content:
- High-quality Madagascan Bourbon Red beans contain about 1.5% vanillin.
- A proper 1-fold extract should have roughly 0.15% vanillin.
If your supplier’s extract has much less vanillin, it may indicate poor-quality beans or inefficient extraction.
Why This Matters for Food Producers
- Avoid overpaying for low-quality vanilla extract.
- Ensure consistency in flavor for your products.
- Guarantee a real, natural vanilla taste for your customers.
Get Real Pure Vanilla Extract
At Dutch Essentials, we supply high-quality vanilla extracts from 1L to 1000L. We prioritize transparency and real vanilla flavor for food producers who value quality.
📩 Contact us at
michel@dutch-essentials.com
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