Vanilla

Vanilla is an exotic flavoring agent that is derived from the bean of the Vanilla Orchid. The bean is dried in the sun for a long period of time, allowing it to develop an exotic flavor. The chemical vanillin in the beans is what gives the vanilla it's flavor. Natural vanilla extract is made from vanilla beans, while artificial vanilla extract is is made from vanillin extracted in trace amounts from wood, resulting in a cheaper and less potent product. Vanilla extract from Mexico should be used with caution, as health standards in Mexico allow vanilla extract to be cut with certain chemicals that contain carcinogens.