about Vanilla
Did you know that....
1) Vanilla is one of the most expensive spices in the world. What drives the price you ask? Well, vanilla is grown in mass quantities only in a few tropical regions on earth, like Madagascar, Tahiti, Indonesia, Uganda and Mexico.
Vanilla orchids can take years to mature and up to nine months to harvest this temperamental plant. Also, humans have to hand pollinated the vanilla, within a 24-hours, after the Orchid flower opens.
On top of the known challenges in growing vanilla, you then have to factor in climate change and the potential of failed crops. No wonder the price of vanilla is through the roof.
2) Mexico was the first place to cultivate vanilla. Unfortunately, production of Mexican vanilla has decreased substantially throughout the years. This is due theft and violence experienced by farmers when growing this expensive spice. The monitory risk and violence in growing vanilla in Mexico is not worth it to some farmers thereby, reducing the supply of vanilla worldwide.
3) Vanilla may offer numerous health benefits such as brain health and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies are still out but look promising.
4) Essence Vanilla (aka, Imitation vanilla) is solely made up of artificially derived vanillin, which is frequently made from a by-product of wood pulp and other unsavory things. This accounts for 99% of the vanilla you taste in store bought products. No wonder imitation vanilla it's cheaper.
Word of advice, when you are looking to purchase vanilla, always look for labels that clearly states 100% Pure Vanilla Extract. Manufacturers of Vanilla extract are not allowed to state 100% Pure Vanilla if they do not follow strict guidelines set by the FDA. Doing otherwise is illegal.
Sources of data - WebMD, The Spruce, Food Network, NPR, Various Others
Make sure to check out features on Cacao Beans, Cara Cara Oranges and Meyer Lemon
Our 100% Pure Madagascar
Vanilla Extract aged 14-18 months.