Gluten-Free Baking In Australia: Is Vanilla Extract Safe? (2025)

Vanilla extract is a common ingredient in sweet treats, from cookies to ice cream, and is often used in baking. It is made by macerating and soaking vanilla bean pods in a solution of alcohol and water. The primary source of vanilla flavour comes from the vanilla beans themselves, which are naturally gluten-free. However, not all vanilla extracts are gluten-free, as some may contain gluten-containing ingredients or be subject to cross-contamination during the manufacturing process. Those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance should be cautious and opt for certified gluten-free brands. In Australia, one can find gluten-free vanilla extract options from brands like Natural Moreish, Simply Organic, and Singing Dog.

Pure vanilla extract is gluten-free

However, it is important to note that not all vanilla extracts are created equal. While pure vanilla extract is gluten-free, artificial vanilla extract or imitation vanilla may contain gluten. These products are often cut with sweeteners, corn syrup, additives, and colouring to mimic the appearance and taste of pure vanilla extract. Therefore, it is crucial to read the labels and look for allergen statements or certifications to ensure a product is truly gluten-free.

Some brands of vanilla extract are certified gluten-free, such as Nielsen-Massey, which is certified by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). Their products are produced using 100% sugar cane alcohol, and their facilities are free of the top 8 allergens. Another option is Singing Dog, which offers both alcohol-based and alcohol-free vanilla extracts that are gluten-free, sugar-free, and corn-free. Their beans are sourced from Indonesia, resulting in a rich, distinctive flavour with fruity and spicy notes.

In Australia, Natural Moreish offers a pure vanilla flavouring that is vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and made with high-quality vanilla beans. It is all-natural and free from artificial additives, extra sugar, and preservatives. This product can be purchased online and in some stores.

Lastly, while pure vanilla extract is naturally gluten-free, cross-contamination during manufacturing or packaging is possible. Therefore, those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance should opt for brands that are certified gluten-free or produced in dedicated gluten-free facilities to minimise the risk of gluten exposure.

Imitation vanilla is usually gluten-free

Pure vanilla extract is made from gluten-free ingredients, and the same is usually true for imitation vanilla. However, artificial vanilla extract is a bit more complicated. While imitation vanilla is generally considered gluten-free, it can contain corn syrup, additives, and colouring to give it the same caramel colour as pure extract. These ingredients may not be gluten-free for all brands, so it's important to check the label for an allergen ingredient statement.

Imitation vanilla is a cheaper alternative to pure vanilla extract. While pure vanilla comes only from vanilla beans, imitation vanilla is cut with sweeteners (i.e. added sugar). It may taste slightly like vanilla, but it tends to have a "chemical-like" aftertaste.

Vanilla extract is made by marinating high-quality vanilla beans in a mixture of ethyl alcohol and water. The alcohol used is usually sugarcane ethanol, although grain alcohols such as vodka, rum, or bourbon could also be used. The distillation process removes any possible gluten from the vanilla beans, with well below 20 ppm of gluten. Most vanilla bean paste and extract manufacturers use alcohol from potatoes or sugar cane.

There are many brands that produce certified gluten-free vanilla extract. For example, Nielsen-Massey, Singing Dog, Simply Organic, and Rodelle all offer gluten-free vanilla extracts.

Vanilla extract brands that are certified gluten-free

Pure vanilla extract is naturally gluten-free, as it is made from vanilla beans, which are gluten-free, and alcohol. However, some people with gluten intolerance may want to find a brand that is tested and labelled as gluten-free. This is because there is a risk of gluten contamination in the manufacturing and extraction process.

• Nielsen-Massey: This brand is certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). Their vanilla is sourced from Mexico, Tahiti, and Madagascar, and is available in grocery stores and online.
• Simply Organic: This company offers a pure vanilla extract made from Madagascar vanilla beans and organic alcohol. It is certified gluten-free and can be purchased on Amazon and the Simply Organic website.
• Singing Dog: Singing Dog is an online retailer that offers a gluten-free, sugar-free, and corn-free vanilla extract. Their vanilla beans are sourced from Indonesia, resulting in a rich and distinctive flavour.
• Rodelle: This company offers a gluten-free, pure vanilla extract made from high-quality Bourbon vanilla beans. It can be purchased on the Rodelle website and other websites, such as Amazon.
• Watkins: Watkins produces a gluten-free, pure vanilla extract made with Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans. Their ingredients are all naturally derived, non-GMO, and Kosher. Their vanilla extract can be found online and in stores, including Walmart.
• McCormick: This popular brand offers a gluten-free vanilla extract that is widely available in stores and online. It is made with distilled alcohol and contains only natural ingredients.

Vanilla extract ingredients and manufacturing process

Vanilla extract is made by percolating or macerating vanilla beans with ethyl alcohol and water in large steel containers. The vanilla beans are chopped or split and soaked in the alcohol and water mixture for 48 hours to several months. The longer the vanilla beans are soaked, the stronger the flavour. The mixture is kept cool to minimise flavour loss, although some manufacturers believe heat is necessary for optimal extraction. The extract is then filtered and stored in a holding tank until bottling.

The two essential ingredients for homemade vanilla extract are vanilla beans and alcohol, typically vodka. The vanilla beans are sliced lengthwise and submerged in alcohol in a bottle or jar. The mixture is sealed and stored in a cool, dark place for at least six weeks and up to 12 months. The longer the mixture sits, the stronger the flavour. The vanilla beans can be removed before use, or left in the bottle to continue infusing.

For vanilla extract to be labelled as "pure" in the United States, it must contain at least 35% alcohol and 100g of vanilla beans per litre (13.35 ounces per gallon). The vanilla component can come from vanilla beans or "concentrated vanilla flavouring". The extract may also contain additives such as sugar, corn syrup, caramel colour, or stabilisers, although these are not required.

The price of vanilla extract can vary significantly, depending on the quality of the beans and the production method. Pure vanilla extract, made with real vanilla beans, is typically more expensive than synthetic vanilla essence. The latter is made with artificially derived vanillin and is often cheaper and less flavoursome than pure vanilla extract.

Vanilla extract alternatives

Pure vanilla extract is naturally gluten-free, but some people with extreme gluten sensitivity may want to opt for a brand that is tested and labelled as gluten-free. Vanilla extract is made by marinating high-quality vanilla beans in a mixture of ethyl alcohol and water. The alcohol used is often derived from potatoes or sugar cane.

However, artificial vanilla extract is a bit more complicated. Imitation vanilla is generally free from gluten, but it can contain corn syrup, additives, and colouring. These ingredients may not be gluten-free for all brands, so it’s important to check the label for an allergen ingredient statement.

If you are looking for a gluten-free vanilla extract, there are several brands that are certified gluten-free, including:

• Singing Dog
• Nielsen-Massey
• Simply Organic
• Watkins
• Rodelle
• 365

If you are looking for a vanilla extract alternative, there are several options available. Maple syrup, for example, has a sweet aroma and can mimic the mellow flavour of vanilla. Honey can also be used as a substitute, adding a bright, floral sweetness to desserts. Like maple syrup, it can also enhance the texture of baked goods. Alcoholic spirits such as bourbon, brandy, and rum can also be used as substitutes, mimicking the rich, caramelly taste of vanilla extract. However, caution should be exercised when serving these to children, pregnant individuals, or those who avoid alcohol.

Other alternatives include:

• Almond extract
• Espresso powder
• Citrus zest
• Vanilla powder
• Vanilla paste
• Vanilla sugar

Frequently asked questions