Pure Vanilla Extract: Is it gluten free?

Some people have wondered if they need to purchase “Gluten Free Vanilla” if they are trying to make gluten free products. Here’s the 411. Pure vanilla extract IS gluten free. You don’t need to buy special vanilla. I think the concern was born out of the fact that many grains (like wheat) are used to make the refined alcohols used in things like vanilla extract….. or your favorite martini. However, the distillation process does not allow any of gluten proteins to pass into the final product. So, none of the gluten that may have been used to make the alcohol ends up in the alcohol or the vanilla it is used in. If companies are labeling their pure vanilla extract product as “gluten free” they are likely doing so to get people’s attention and  to become part of a niche market. Much like when many manufacturer started labeling their products “fat free” even though their product had always been fat free and their wasn’t anything new or special about it…..like fat free marshmellows…..makes them SEEM healthier doesn’t it?

Oh, while on the topic of vanilla. Look at other stores for great prices on vanilla. The grocery store prices are ridiculous for the amount of vanilla you get AND many of the major brands include corn syrup. You can get pure vanilla extract (vanilla beans, alcohol and water) at places like The Christmas Tree Shop (about $3.50 for 8oz), Reny’s (in Maine), etc. for far cheaper than the grocery store for an often better product. Also, look in those stores for Bob’s Red Mill flours and products too…..also cheaper than the grocery store!

That’s it for today’s class of Vanilla 101.  Use freely!!!