How Can You Tell If Mexican Vanilla Is Real?

Consumers should be cautious when buying vanilla in Mexico and other Latin American countries, the FDA advised. Look for “vanilla bean” on the label’s ingredient list. Don’t buy the product if it says “tonka bean” or has a vague ingredient list or no list. Florida State University has more about coumarin.

Is Mexican vanilla real vanilla?

Mexican vanilla that is produced by a reputable American company is pure vanilla extract made from Mexican beans. Unfortunately, some specialty food stores carry Mexican vanilla made in Mexico. While it is possible that it is pure vanilla, the chances are more than 99% that it is not pure.

How do you know if vanilla is real?

To be labeled Pure Vanilla Extract, a gallon measure must contain 13.35% vanilla bean extractives (10-ounces of moisture-free solids), 35% alcohol, and the balance in distilled water. What is not listed in the Standard of Identity is sugar, corn syrup, caramel color or any other additives pure vanilla may contain.

How is Mexican vanilla different from regular vanilla?

According to US FDA regulations, in order to be labeled “pure” a vanilla extract must have 35% alcohol (FDA 21CFR169. 3). Our Pure Mexican vanilla contains this higher 35% alcohol content, and is therefore best utilized in those items which require high heat, such as baking. This allows much of the alcohol to cook out.

Is clear Mexican vanilla real?

Our vanilla product is made from real vanilla beans, is brought into the U.S. legally (FDA# 16359565038) and doesn’t contain dangerous coumarin or corn syrup as most vanilla products at the border have.

What should I look for when buying Mexican vanilla?

Look for amber-colored vanilla. Real vanilla is not clear, so despite what the label might say, if it’s clear, it’s not real vanilla–it’s synthetic. True vanilla is amber colored. Synthetics tend to be very dark either from the coal tar from which they are produced or from caramel and red food colorings.

How much does pure vanilla cost in Mexico?

A kg of Vanilla in Mexico is around USD 12.95 in Mexico City and Guadalajara, packed and ready for export.

Does Mexican vanilla extract taste different?

Mexican vanilla — which may smell and taste like real vanilla and is cheaper than the real thing — is sold in Mexico and other Latin American countries and has started appearing in some U.S. stores and restaurants, the FDA said. Pure vanilla is made with the extract of beans from the vanilla plant.

How do you test vanilla extract?

You can learn a lot just by looking at your extract. Visually, is it a dark, amber color? If it was made with a light spirit (like a vodka or a white rum) you will be able to see through it when you hold it up to a light source. It should be a beautiful amber color.

Why is Mexican vanilla yellow?

This Mexican bee is the only insect evolved to pollinate the vanilla orchid flower. Vanilla beans grow green on the vine and are harvested when the tip begins to turn yellow. The curing process is what gives the beans their characteristic brown color as well as their flavor and aroma.

How long does Mexican vanilla last?

The shelf life of Mexican vanilla extract depends on it’s quality. High quality Mexican vanilla extract will last up to 10 years but cheap Mexican vanilla extract may only retain it’s flavor for up to 2 years.

Is pure vanilla cheap in Mexico?

“Pure vanilla extract usually costs more in Mexico than in the U.S. If it’s in a big bottle and you paid $20 or less, it’s not pure vanilla extract, no matter what the label says.” Vanilla beans inside dried pods.

What’s the difference between clear and dark Mexican vanilla?

Clear vanilla is pure, synthetic vanillin made by chemists. It’s often called “crystal vanilla.” You can buy it in the US for about the same price. Dark and murky is synthetic vanillin, most likely ethyl vanillin derived from coal tar.

How much Mexican vanilla should I use?

To answer the second question about the amount to be used in recipes when using Mexican vanilla: If you do have the genuine Mexican vanilla, you should use less of it than the recipe calls for because it is stronger than the regularly available vanilla.

What’s the difference between Madagascar vanilla and Mexican vanilla?

Madagascar vanilla Also called bourbon vanilla, Madagascan vanilla comes from the same plant and has the same basic flavor notes as Mexican vanilla. The only significant difference is that in Mexico, the plant is pollinated by a bee and in Madagascar, humans need to pollinate the flower, leading to its higher price.

Why does my vanilla still taste like alcohol?

Vanilla extracts have no expiration date thanks to the high alcohol content. Extracts are similar to liquor, given they are at least 70 proof. Because of that, vanilla will age for two years or longer. Then it stabilizes, and will remain flavorful for a long time if stored in a cool, dark cupboard.

Is Mexican vanilla stronger?

Mexican Vanilla Its 2 or 4 times stronger and cheaper than other vanillas. The translation of the label says it is made with real vanilla.”

What should I look for when buying vanilla in Mexico?

Consumers should be cautious when buying vanilla in Mexico and other Latin American countries, the FDA advised. Look for “vanilla bean” on the label’s ingredient list. Don’t buy the product if it says “tonka bean” or has a vague ingredient list or no list. Florida State University has more about coumarin.

Does Mexican vanilla need to be refrigerated?

Keeping it in a cupboard or pantry will save you time in the long run. Storing vanilla extract in your fridge isn’t necessary for any safety purpose. It’s nearly impossible for bacteria to grow in or on the extract. You do want to keep it in a cool place, such as in a cupboard or pantry, however.

What is pure vanilla in Mexico?

Pure vanilla is made with the extract of beans from the vanilla plant. Mexican vanilla is frequently made with the extract of beans from the tonka tree, an entirely different plant that belongs to the pea family. Tonka bean extract contains coumarin.

How long does pure vanilla from Mexico last?

The shelf life of Mexican vanilla extract depends on it’s quality. High quality Mexican vanilla extract will last up to 10 years but cheap Mexican vanilla extract may only retain it’s flavor for up to 2 years.