Can Vanilla Extract Make You Sick?

on April 23, 2023

A common item in many kitchens, vanilla extract is used to enhance the flavour of baked products, desserts, and even savoury dishes. Even while vanilla extract is typically thought to be safe to ingest in moderation, some people worry about its possible negative effects on their health.

Can you become sick from vanilla extract, then? The hazards of ingesting vanilla extract will be discussed in this blog post along with the recommended daily intake of vanilla extract. We’ll also discuss the signs of alcohol poisoning and the negative effects of consuming too much vanilla essence. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know more about the dangers of eating vanilla extract and how to do it safely.

Small doses of vanilla extract are often safe to eat, but larger doses may make you feel unwell. Alcohol is present in vanilla extract, which when eaten in large doses, can result in alcohol poisoning.

Alcohol poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion, respiratory difficulties, and unconsciousness, among other symptoms. In severe circumstances, it may potentially result in coma or death.

It’s crucial to remember that while vanilla extract only contains a minor quantity of alcohol, drinking a modest amount of it is unlikely to result in alcohol poisoning. It’s best to speak with a doctor if you have any worries about ingesting vanilla extract or if you notice any negative side effects after doing so.

Can vanilla extract cause allergic reactions in some people?

Some people may experience allergic reactions from vanilla extract. Even though it is not one of the most frequent food allergies, some people may be sensitive to or allergic to vanilla.

Depending on the individual, a vanilla allergy or sensitivity may cause the following symptoms:

Skin itchiness or hives
face, lips, or tongue swelling

breathing issues or wheezing
stomach aches, nauseousness, or vomiting
migraines or headaches

It’s crucial to consult a doctor or allergist if you think you could be allergic to vanilla extract for a proper diagnosis and course of action. To determine whether you are allergic to vanilla or another element in the extract, it may occasionally be required to undergo an allergy test.

Read food labels carefully and steer clear of any items that contain vanilla extract if you have a known allergy to it. Other goods that contain similar chemicals, like vanillin or coumarin, which are present in various foods and cosmetics, may also need to be avoided.

Can vanilla extract interact with certain medications?

Certain drugs, particularly those that are metabolised by the liver, can interact with vanilla extract. The liver’s ability to digest drugs can be hampered by the alcohol in vanilla extract, which may reduce their effectiveness or result in adverse side effects.

Medication interactions with vanilla extract include, for instance:

Antidepressants: Some antidepressant drugs, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), may interact with vanilla extract, raising the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal disease.
Blood Thinners: The risk of bleeding may be increased by interactions between vanilla extract and blood thinners like warfarin.

Drugs that cause extreme sleepiness or impair coordination include benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and vanilla extract. These drugs may also be enhanced by vanilla extract.

It is crucial to consult your healthcare professional before using vanilla extract or any other dietary supplements if you are taking any medications. They may provide you advice on safe dosage and usage as well as assist in identifying any potential interactions. Especially if you are taking drugs that may interact with vanilla extract, it’s a good idea to read food labels carefully and refrain from drinking significant amounts of the substance.

Are there any differences between pure vanilla extract and imitation vanilla extract in terms of their potential health effects?

Regarding their possible health consequences, pure vanilla extract and fake vanilla extract differ in a few ways.

Natural vanilla flavouring, alcohol, and water are all components of pure vanilla extract, which is produced from the pods of the vanilla orchid plant. When used in moderation, it is thought to be a natural and harmless substance with no known negative health consequences. It may not be suitable for people who are sensitive to alcohol or who abstain from it out of personal or religious convictions, though, as it does contain alcohol.

On the other side, counterfeit vanilla extract imitates the flavour of natural vanilla by using artificial or synthetic flavours. To improve its flavour and look, it may incorporate a range of additives, such as corn syrup or caramel colour. Although the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally considers imitation vanilla extract to be harmless, certain individuals may be allergic to the artificial flavours or compounds present in it. Additionally, coumarin, a substance associated to liver damage in high concentrations, may be present in some fake vanilla extracts.

How can you tell if vanilla extract has gone bad and is no longer safe to use?

When properly preserved, vanilla extract has a lengthy shelf life and can last for several years. It might eventually go bad, though, just like any food product. Here are some indicators that your vanilla extract can be spoiled and unsafe to use:

Colour changes: Dark brown vanilla extract is the ideal shade. It can have gone bad if it starts to get foggy or develop a lighter colour.
Aroma changes: Vanilla extract ought to have a robust, sweet aroma. It might be spoiled if it smells sour, rotten, or alcoholic.
If there is sediment or other particles at the bottom of the bottle, the vanilla extract may have gone bad.

Taste: If the vanilla extract you’re using tastes harsh or unpleasant, it can be bad.

It is advised to throw away the vanilla extract and get a new bottle if you see any of these symptoms. Store your vanilla extract away from heat sources and in a cool, dark location to help increase its shelf life. Additionally, it’s a good idea to keep the bottle completely shut to keep out air and moisture, which could cause the extract to degrade.

Are there any alternative ingredients to vanilla extract that can be used in recipes?

Instead of vanilla extract, there are substitutes that can be used in recipes. Here are several possibilities:

The purest form of vanilla is found in the bean, which can be used in place of vanilla extract. After removing the seeds from the bean by making a lengthwise cut, add them to your recipe.
Almond Extract: Almond extract can be used in place of vanilla in many recipes since it has a flavour profile that is similar to vanilla. Use it sparingly though—its flavour is stronger.
Maple Syrup: When a sweetener and a whiff of vanilla flavour are required, maple syrup can be utilised in recipes. It won’t give your recipe the exact same flavour as vanilla extract, but it can give it a lovely, original touch.

Coconut Milk: When a creamy, sweet flavour is called for in a dish, coconut milk can be substituted for vanilla extract. Its mildly nutty flavour might harmonise with other flavours in the recipe.
Citrous Zest: Lemon, orange, or lime zest can be substituted for vanilla essence in recipes to impart a zesty, vibrant flavour. For every teaspoon of vanilla extract called for in the recipe, use around 1 tablespoon of zest.

It’s vital to keep in mind that when substituting ingredients, the final product’s flavour and texture could alter slightly. To make sure you’re delighted with the outcomes, it’s better to test out smaller batches before preparing larger ones.