Vanilla grading
Understand the different grades of vanilla and their unique characteristics
Vanilla bean – Black gourmet
Gourmet beans are known as whole black beans. They are black, long, and rich in flavor and aroma. As chefs are the target market for this type of bean, they are referred to as “gourmet.” Some also label them as Grade A.
Black Gourmet is recognized as the highest quality of Bourbon vanilla, with a high moisture content and distinct aroma. They are flexible, making them easy to split with a knife.
Vanillin Content: 1.5% – 2.1%
Moisture: 32-35% Variety: Planifolia
Length: 15-22 cm (Minimum 13 cm to be classified as Black Gourmet)
Origin: Madagascar
Target Customer: Restaurants, patisseries, gelaterias
Vanilla powder
Vanilla powder is a general term for ground vanilla beans, though the quality can vary depending on the blend.
Lower Quality: Vanillin content of 0.5% (Vanilla cuts ground into a powder)
Higher Quality: Vanillin content of 1.5%-2.1% (A blend of Vanilla Cuts & Red EU)
The higher the vanillin content, the finer the quality used in powder production. Therefore, a low price for powder may reflect lower quality.
Vanillin Content: 1.5%+
Moisture: 16-20%
Variety: Planifolia
Target Customer: Food manufacturing/industry – also used in the production of vanilla sugar and for baking.
Vanilla cuts
Vanilla cuts come from short beans, approximately 10 cm in length. The beans are folded during sun drying. Vanilla cuts are the most affordable type of real vanilla available. They are shipped only in bulk, 25 kg per box. With a sweet, floral aroma, vanilla cuts are exclusively used for extraction in the food industry and for vanilla powder production.
Vanillin Content: 0.5-0.6%
Moisture: approx. 16%
Variety: Planifolia
Target Customer: Food industry – ice cream, dairy products, chocolate, biscuits, beverages, breweries.
TK Vanilla bean
TK beans are commonly used in the gourmet and confectionery industries and have a brownish color. They have a moderately high moisture content of 29-32%. TK beans are versatile and suitable for all purposes, including extraction or gourmet use. They can be split or unsplit (depending on the moisture level).
Vanillin Content: approx. 1.5%
Moisture: 29-32%
Variety: Planifolia
Length: Approved lengths are 12-13 cm, but may also be 14 cm+
Origin: Madagascar
Target Customer: Small-scale production (confectionery, ice cream, etc.), as well as for restaurants & patisseries.
Vanilla bean RED US
Red beans with a sweet, floral aroma and strong cocoa notes. Widely used in the North American market, primarily for extraction in the food industry.
Vanillin Content: 1.5%+
Moisture: 18-22%
Variety: Planifolia
Length: Approved lengths are 12-13 cm, but may also be 14 cm+
Target Customer: Food industry – ice cream, dairy products, biscuits, beverages, breweries.
Vanilla bean RED EU
Red beans with a sweet, floral aroma and strong cocoa notes. Widely used in the European market for extraction in the food industry. RED EU has a slightly higher moisture content than RED US.
Vanillin Content: approx. 1.5%+
Moisture: 23-27%
Variety: Planifolia
Length: Approved lengths are 12-13 cm, but may also be 14 cm+
Origin: Madagascar
Target Customer: Food industry – ice cream, dairy products, biscuits, beverages, breweries.
Learn more about vanilla
What types of vanilla do you offer?
We offer a complete selection of premium vanilla varieties, tailored for gourmet and industrial needs:
- Bourbon Vanilla – Rich and creamy, perfect for restaurants
- Pompona Vanilla – Fruity and floral, prized by gourmet chefs.
- Tahitian Vanilla – Soft and floral, ideal for delicate flavor profiles.
- Vanilla Powder – Intense flavor, suited for both food production and fine flavoring.
Each product is carefully sourced and processed to meet the highest standards, delivering quality and consistency.
How should I store vanilla?
To preserve the moisture, aroma, and vanillin content of your vanilla, it’s essential to store it correctly:
- Cool and Dark – Keep vanilla in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat, to prevent drying and loss of aroma.
- Airtight vacuum-bags – Store vanilla in airtight bags to lock in moisture and prevent exposure to air, which can cause it to dry out.
- Avoid Refrigeration – Do not refrigerate or freeze vanilla, as this can cause condensation and affect its quality.
Is your vanilla organically and ethically grown?
Yes, all our vanilla is naturally grown, as organic cultivation is standard practice in vanilla farming.
We believe in a sustainable approach that supports social, ecological, and environmental well-being for the long term. By paying farmers in the SAVA region twice the local average, we contribute to a positive social impact, honoring the hard work behind each quality vanilla bean.
We offer all our vanilla in both certified organic and conventional options.
How can I place an order with you?
Placing an order with us is simple. Let us know the type of vanilla you’re interested in, the volume you need, and any specific requirements.
If you already know your order details, feel free to send your request to us at oskar@vanilla-export.com or via WhatsApp at +46 704494878.
Alternatively, you can fill out the form below, and we’ll get in touch with you as soon as possible.
What factors affect the price of vanilla?
Vanilla prices are influenced by several factors, including global demand, local production costs, and Madagascar's green vanilla prices, which vary by region and distance to transport routes.
Labor-intensive processing, strict quality controls, and high demand from the food and beverage industry contribute to price fluctuations.
Additionally, political factors, export taxes, and speculative stockpiling by collectors and exporters drive prices. External economic influences are less significant; instead, supply and demand dynamics and Madagascar's dominance in the vanilla market play a central role.
How long is the shelf life of vanilla?
The shelf life of vanilla largely depends on how it is stored. When stored correctly— in a cool, dark place and in an airtight vacuum bag — vanilla can retain its quality for up to 2-3 years.
However, improper storage, such as exposure to heat, light, or air, will significantly reduce its shelf life.
Following the recommended storage guidelines will help ensure your vanilla stays fresh, fragrant, and flavorful for as long as possible.
Can I track my order?
Yes, all our orders are shipped via DHL, and we provide a tracking number for every shipment.
Our close partnership with DHL, allows us to offer reliable tracking and efficient delivery service.
Once your order is dispatched, you’ll receive your tracking details to follow its journey to you.
