Vanilla Extract vs Artificial Vanilla

 

To be honest I had cut way back on using vanilla over the past year when the prices quiet literally doubled. But recently I've been able to purchase some on sale for a much more reasonable price. Of course since I use the organic sugar free, alcohol free version it was already more expensive than most other types. The less expensive types of vanilla tend to contain alcohol, sugar or corn syrup, colouring and other additives.

According to Wikipedia, "artificial vanilla flavour (also known as imitation vanilla) is solely made up of artificially-derived vanillin, which is frequently made from a by-product of the wood pulp industry." Yes, I did say wood pulp. This unsurprisingly was completely new news to me too. I've never been so relieved to be using the real thing.

Because of this artificial or imitation vanilla is clear in colour. Real vanilla extract on the other hand retains it's natural colour. I also discouvered that when it comes to allergies, allergies to artificial vanilla happen more often than to vanilla extract or any of the naturally derived option.

Today the most common form of vanilla used is vanilla extract and not artificial vanilla. The most common variety of beans we use today are from Indonesian, Tahitian, Mexican, Ugandan, and Madagascar. The beans are left to dry in the sun to develop their flavour and later soaked in a food based liquid such as glycerin or alcohol. Of course there are other options like vanilla powder or vanilla beans but they are generally harder to find and a much more expensive option.

So tonight while I'm making up my whip cream and adding a splash of vanilla I'm thankful that I'm not adding "by-products from the wood pulp industry". I can absolutely enjoy a dollop of yum to my fruit dessert tonight.

If you're looking for some Easter inspiration check out our Easter Pinterest page. I've been busy adding some more creative ideas to the board.

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Sources:

Wikipedia

Webmd.com

onegreenplanet.org/natural-health/vanilla-versus-vanillin-what-you-need-to-know/