Artisan Vanilla Extract

What is natural vanilla extract?

Natural vanilla extract is a highly prized spice used worldwide for its incredible flavor and distinctive aroma. Originating from the pods of the vanilla orchid, this exquisite product is appreciated not only in the culinary field but also in the perfumery and aromatherapy industry.

Origin of vanilla extract

Vanilla extract has its roots in ancient Mesoamerican cultures, especially in the Totonaca civilization of the Veracruz region of Mexico. This culture pioneered the domestication and use of vanilla, which they called ‘Axi-Xanath,’ which translates as ‘hidden flower.

Benefits of vanilla extract

Vanilla extract, obtained from the Vanilla planifolia plant, offers several benefits that have made it a widely used ingredient in various industries. The following are the main benefits of vanilla extract:

Industrial applications

Vanilla extract is considered one of the essential flavorings worldwide, being used in many sectors:

• Agri-food industry
• Soft drinks industry
• Liquor industry
• Pharmaceutical industry
• Cosmetics industry
• Tobacco industry
• Craft industry

Its popularity is mainly due to its excellent aromatic quality, characterized by sweet, intense notes and a tobacco aroma with a creamy character.

Organoleptic properties

The vanilla extract possesses unique sensory characteristics that make it highly appreciated:

Aroma: Aroma: Mild and pleasant, developed during the beneficiation process.
Sabor: Flavor: Sweet and intense, with creamy notes.

These properties make vanilla extract a versatile and desirable ingredient in producing various food and cosmetic products.

Economic benefits

The production and marketing of vanilla and its derivatives, such as the extract, can generate significant economic benefits:

Added value: The process of processing and producing extracts significantly increases the product's value.
Market potential: The United States is the world's largest importer of vanilla beans, indicating a high demand for the product.
Development opportunities: In regions with favorable climates, such as South Florida, there is a high potential for profitable vanilla cultivation.

Quality and safety

Properly produced vanilla extracts meet quality and safety standards:

Microbiological safety: Studies have shown that properly processed vanilla beans do not contain coliform precursor colonies, indicating their safety for consumption.
Regulatory compliance: Vanilla extracts can meet the requirements of official standards.

Where to buy natural vanilla extract?

There are several options to consider when obtaining a natural vanilla extract, both in physical shops and on online platforms. Below are some of the best alternatives for acquiring this product:

• Natural and organic product stores
• Supermarkets
• E-commerce platforms
• Local markets and farmers' fairs
• Spice stores
• Local manufacturers
• Confectionery stores
• Distributors of ingredients for the food industry
• Natural cosmetics stores

How to store vanilla extract

Proper preservation of vanilla extract is essential to preserve its quality, flavor, and aroma over time. Below are several recommendations to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of this valuable ingredient:

Storage in a cool, dark place

Vanilla extract should be stored in a cool place, protected from direct light and heat. Exposure to sunlight and high temperatures can break down the extract's aromatic and antioxidant compounds, affecting its quality.

Use of suitable packaging

It is preferable to store vanilla extract in dark glass bottles, as this type of packaging helps to protect the contents from light, which can cause undesirable chemical reactions.

Airtight seal

It is essential to ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air from entering, which could oxidize the extract and alter its taste and aroma. A tight seal also helps prevent the evaporation of alcohol, an essential component of vanilla extract.

The shelf life of the extract

Vanilla extract has a long shelf life, generally 4 to 5 years, provided it is stored properly. Avoid exposure to strong odors.

Avoiding exposure to strong odors

Vanilla extract can absorb odors from the environment, so it is recommended that it be stored away from products with strong fragrances, such as spices or cleaning products.

Difference between vanilla extract and vanilla essence

Vanilla extract

Composition: Vanilla extract is obtained directly from the pods of the Vanilla planifolia plant through maceration in an alcoholic solution.
Manufacturing process: It is made by beneficiation, a traditional fermentation process that develops vanilla's unique physicochemical and sensory characteristics.
Quality: It contains natural aromatic compounds, vanillin being the leading aromatic agent.
Use: It is widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industry due to its high quality and authentic taste.

Vanilla essence

Composition: Vanilla essence is usually a mixture of synthetic compounds that mimic the taste and aroma of natural vanilla.
Manufacturing process: It is produced by chemical processes that synthesize the aromatic compounds characteristic of vanilla.
Quality: Although it may have a similar aroma, it generally lacks the complexity and richness of the natural extract.
Use: Used as a cheaper alternative to natural extract, mainly in processed food products.

Method of production of vanilla extract

The process of making vanilla extract involves several key steps that ensure the quality and taste of the final product. The key steps are detailed below.

Selection of the pods

The first step in preparing vanilla extract is to select high-quality pods from the Vanilla planifolia orchid. These pods must be mature and adequately cured.

Cutting and preparation

Once selected, the pods are cut into smaller pieces to maximize the contact surface during extraction.

Maceration

The cut pods are immersed in a solution of ethyl alcohol and water, which facilitates the extraction of their compounds. This process is essential to preserve their properties and ensure that the nutrients remain intact.

Extraction time

The combination of pods and alcohol must stand for a period ranging from several weeks to several months.

Filtration

After the maceration period, the mixture is filtered to separate the pods from the liquid.

Storage

The vanilla extract is kept in dark glass bottles to protect it from light, which can break down the aroma compounds.

Quality control

Finally, quality tests are carried out to ensure that the extract meets the established standards.