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Vanilla is a climbing
orchid cultivated for its pleasant flavour. It is one of the few contributions
of the western hemisphere to the world of spices. Over 50 species described,
only three are important species as sources of natural vanillin, which
are Vanilla planifollia Andrews, Vanilla pompona Shiede and Vanilla tahitensis
J.W. Moore. Of these, Vanilla planifollia is the most preferred and commercially
cultivated.
Pods (beans) are subjected to curing process to produce the characteristic
aroma. The substance chiefly responsible for the unique fragrance and
flavour of the vanilla bean is vanillin(C8 H8 03).
Among the food flavours, vanilla has a prime position. Vanilla essence
is largely used in foods in the preparation of ice creams, chocolates,
bakery products, puddings, pharmaceuticals, liquors and perfumes. Vanilla
is the second most expensive spice traded in the world market.
The vanilla flavour industry was based on the processed beans of the vanilla
plants. With the advent of chemical
technology to produce vanillin/ ethyl vanillin, these synthetic substitutes
have taken over the use of vanilla beans. However, natural vanillin is
still the most preferred food flavour.
Products Offered:
Vanilla Extract
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