Geography

• Vanilla beans are grown worldwide in tropical locations, with Madagascar as a top producer along with Mexico. The United States is a top consumer of vanilla bean because of its diversified uses, including cooking and baking.
  
  

Function

• The beans provide an abundant flavor and baking is one common use for vanilla beans. Some baked goods prepared with beans are rice puddings, custards and cookies. There are other uses for vanilla beans such as cigars and perfumes.
  
  

Types

• The Madagascar vanilla bean is slim with a sweet flavor used in baking and cooking. Another sweet vanilla bean used in baking and cooking is the Mexican vanilla bean. The Tahitian vanilla bean is dark and heavy with a more floral aroma. This floral aroma makes the beans a good choice for vanilla perfumes.
  
  

Time Frame

• Vanilla beans may be purchased year-round from the supermarket. The beans should not be stored in a the freezer since the cold air can break down the fragrance. Vanilla beans should be stored in a cool, dark location such as the pantry to maintain freshness.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Mexican vanilla may have coumarin, which is banned by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States because of possible internal organ damage such as liver problems. Purchasing from a reputable vanilla supplier provides a measure of safety.