Is Vanilla Extract Gluten Free?
WeekendLife
Pure vanilla extract is gluten free. Thats the answer to a question thats asked often by people who are gluten intolerant, based on the fact that vanilla extract is made using alcohol and most alcohol is made from grain.
This is particularly good news for people living with celiac disease because vanilla makes the world a happier place.
Only use trusted brands of pure vanilla extract
Remember, only brands labelled as pure vanilla extract that use naturally-distilled alcohols are truly gluten free. Always read the label on a bottle of store-bought brands and avoid any product that does not meet the Food and Drug Administrations (FDA) criteria for pure vanilla extract.
The FDA classifies vanilla extract as Pure if it contains a minimum of 35% alcohol (usually ethanol) and 100 grams per litre (13.35 ounces per gallon) of liquid. The rest of the solution should only be water. The FDA limits all other ingredients used in the manufacturing process to mimic the taste and aroma of vanilla.
FDA has paid particularly close attention to vanilla extract in recent years, largely because of the amount of fraud and false claims within the vanilla industry. At the end of the day, imitation vanilla extract is made using synthetic vanillin which is made from a by-product of the pulp industry.
Most imitation vanilla contains ingredients like corn syrup, artificial sweetener and/or colour dye to mimic the flavour and look of natural vanilla extract.
Why only pure vanilla extract is safe
The vanilla extract market is not well regulated and there are hundreds of imitation brands on the market that are made using harmful chemicals and preservatives which are obviously not good for you. Even some quality brands that meet the FDA requirements of pure vanilla extract use a cheap alcohol base to keep the price down.
Imitation vanilla extract is made from synthetic vanillin which is the compound that occurs naturally in vanilla beans and what gives the extract its distinctive aroma and taste. Synthetic vanillin is made using anything from coal tar, pine-park or fermented bran to cow poop and secretions from a beavers castor glands (near its anus).
More commonly, synthetic vanillin is made from lignin waste (wood polymer) which is a by-product of the pulp industry, mostly from the process of making paper.
You really dont know what goes into imitation vanilla extract but we know for sure that in order to cut costs and meet the demand for vanilla flavouring, the products are not pure and contain harmful chemicals and preservatives.
On top of that, manufacturers of fake vanilla extract add ingredients like glycerine, invert sugar, glucose, propylene glycol and sugar to the solution. These either act as flavour enhancers or speed up the extraction process.
The other thing thats added is caramel colour dye, otherwise imitation vanilla has no colour and stands out as fake against the rich, dark-brown colour of pure vanilla extract. The colour dye used in imitation vanilla may contain malt syrup from barley, starches from wheat and even lactose.
To be completely safe, particularly if youre dangerously intolerant of gluten, we recommend you make your own homemade vanilla extract if you cant find a trusted brand of pure vanilla extract.
Learn more about the uses of Vanilla Powder.
Why is pure vanilla extract gluten free if it contains alcohol?
Its all about the distillation process.
To be gluten free, vanilla extract must be made using naturally distilled alcohol. The FDA allows distilled alcohol in foods labelled gluten-free regardless of the starting material which may be wheat, barley or rye. This is because the alcohol distillation process removes almost all traces of gluten making it safe to consume, much like distilled vinegar.
An ingredient derived from a grain containing gluten that has been properly distilled passes as a gluten-free product. Distilled alcohols are often labelled as processed to remove gluten, meaning the product was distilled from grains containing gluten where some or all of the gluten is removed.
To understand this better, here is an excerpt from The Gluten-Free Nutrition Guide (Tricia Thompson, McGraw-Hill, 2008).
Alcoholic beverages are either fermented or distilled. Fermented and distilled beverages are made by first converting starch or sugar from a food source (for example, grapes, wheat, or potato) to alcohol, using yeast.
With fermented beverages, such as beer, the liquid removed from the mash (the mixture of starting materials) is boiled. If a gluten-containing grain is one of the food sources used to make the mash, the liquid removed from the mash is not gluten-free.
With distilled beverages, such as vodka, the liquid removed from the mash is not only boiled but also distilled. Distillation is used to increase the alcohol content of the beverage. When the liquid is boiled, the vapour is captured and cooled.
The resulting liquid is called the distillate. Distillation separates substances that are volatile (meaning they vaporize) from less volatile substances. Protein is not volatile and does not vaporize. Consequently, even if wheat, barley, or rye was used to make a distilled alcoholic beverage, gluten-containing proteins will not be found in the final distillate.
Is vodka gluten free?
This question is important because pastry chefs and home bakers usually use vodka to make homemade vanilla extract. This is because vodka has a neutral taste and doesnt change the flavour profile of the dessert or detract from the natural taste and aromatic flavour of vanilla.
Most vodka is made from cereal grains that contain gluten, including wheat, barley or rye. As discussed, the distillation process removes the harmful gluten proteins, meaning vodka – and all other naturally-distilled alcohol for that matter – are essentially gluten free.
However, because vodka contains gluten-containing ingredients – the starting material it is not permitted to be labelled as gluten free, even though no gluten is left in the product.
Did you know?
Its easy to make homemade vanilla extract thats gluten free and its cheaper than store-bought
All you need are 3 to 4 fresh vanilla beans and 1 cup of naturally distilled alcohol. Most people use vodka and the brand with the highest proof of vodka, the better. Slice each vanilla bean lengthwise; open it up but keep the two pieces connected, leaving an inch intact on either end.
Place the split vanilla beans in a glass jar and pour the vodka over them. Close with a lid that seals tightly and leave in a cool, dark place for anything from 6 weeks to 3 months, allowing time for the gorgeous vanilla beans to infuse in the alcohol.
Gently shake the bottle regularly and replace the vanilla beans with fresh ones after a period of time. Homemade vanilla extract can last for up to a year and longer if stored correctly.
WeekendLife
The Science of Happiness
There is an intimate relationship between material wealth and poverty of spirit, posits Jeff Golden, whose award-winning book, Reclaiming the Sacred: Healing Our Relationships with Ourselves and the World, begins with scientific revelations regarding the things that nourish the human spirit and the things that don’t, most notably money and possessions.
“As we’ve surrounded ourselves with more and more possessions, we’ve grown further from the sacredness of the world, and the sacredness of ourselves,” Golden writes. “As we’ve elevated economic growth and consumption to the highest measures of success and purpose, we’ve closed ourselves off from so much of the joy and wonder that are inherent in us and the world.”
The result of 12 years of research, Reclaiming the Sacred draws upon the work of thousands of psychologists and economists, cosmologists and activists, saints and poets, to ground readers in their inherent joy, purpose and belonging — both for their own sakes and for the sake of the world.
Golden explores the profound consequences of materialism, including how it impacts the global climate crisis. Then he goes beyond all of that, diving into the very heart of humanity’s existence, by charting a path — both scientific and mystical — for reclaiming the inherent joy and richness of life.
Money accounts for just 2-4% of our happiness, according to former Vassar College instructor and activist Jeff Golden. What about the remaining 96-98%? Jeff’s thoroughly researched insights provide the answers, and he shares them in his new book, Reclaiming the Sacred, which received the 2023 Nautilus Book Awards Grand Prize, putting him in the company of the Dalai Lama, Barbara Kingsolver, Eckhart Tolle, Deepak Chopra and other luminaries.
Reclaiming the Sacred explores profound questions, including:
- How important is money to happiness?
- What is the optimal amount of money and possessions for a person to be happy?
- Does having kids make people happy? Getting married? Having sex? Working?
- What are some of the most serious effects of global warming?
- What kinds of changes will people have to make as individuals and as a society as a result of global warming? How will those changes allow people to actually live better lives?
- What does the economic system get wrong when it comes to what really matters, and how should progress be measured?
Ultimately, Reclaiming the Sacred takes readers on a journey that follows the golden threads of happiness, abundance and belonging — and leads them home.
“We have an opportunity to reweave ourselves back into the human community and the family of all living beings, the family of the land and trees, the otters and grasses — to live with them in relationships of respect and wonder,” Golden adds. “We have an opportunity to reclaim ourselves and this world as sacred.”
About the Author
Jeff Golden has been teaching and writing about the topics he covers in his book for over 30 years, most recently at Vassar College. He was a Fulbright Scholar in sustainable development and a recipient of the State Department’s Millennium International Volunteer Award. He is a prison reform and animal rights activist, and has headed several nonprofits promoting social justice, sustainability and international education. A native of Idaho, he resides in the Mohicanituk Valley in New York, with his children, the river and the stars.
WeekendLife
Spring and outdoor sex!
The best sex of sexually active persons begins in Spring. Well, this season is time to pack up puffer coats and throw on some lacy lingerie, just so the bedroom is lightened up and the sex gets spicier. For singles, and just in case the libido has been hibernating all winter, it has now become crucial to bring in some heat.
Sexologists and therapists say better sex means different things to different people and it can mean changing many things over time, but one thing’s for sure, to improve sex life in any way, one got to be ready for change.
Certified Sex Therapist Kendra Capalbo suggests that lovers should make most of the weather. “Studies have shown the positive correlation between sunlight and mood, and now that there is more of it, harness the impact it can have on the mood of your relationship. One study from Tel Aviv University showed that increased exposure to sunlight can enhance romantic passion.”
Moving around outside won’t only improve your mood and possible mental approach to sex though, Clinical Sexologist Megwyn White says. “It has physical benefits too. It increases libido by releasing endorphins and improving self-confidence, and it brings more blood flow to the genitals.”
Removing negativity can also work this Spring. Think of the warm weather as a time in which to reset your mindset as well, especially when it comes to your time in the bedroom (or in this case the camping tent.)
“No more negative self-talk or other people’s opinions holding you back. If there is that one fantasy that you and your partner keep agreeing, then make it your mission to finally check it off your bucket list. Spring is all about adventure, so it is time to embrace it.”
Therapists also say that something about Spring makes people want to strip down. Plus, the mild forecast does wonders for your skin and hair, and you can see your legs again. The season allows sex enthusiasts to engage with windows open. Think of it as exhibitionism without the threat of jail time.
Its just as sensual as summer, without the sweat. Those summer months get all the sexual glory, but it’s hard to feel hot when you’re actually, legitimately so hot! When the bedroom turns into a sauna mid-hookup, it’s a little hard to get in the mood.
Experts say there are a number of factors that make Spring sensual. “The weather is the catalyst. Ever since the spring equinox, the days have been getting longer. More exposure to sunlight increases our production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that boots mood. And happy people tend to be horny people,” said Danielle Forshee, a psychologist, family, marriage and individual therapist.
Having started her business in 2016, Forshee specializes in the evaluation and treatment of high-conflict family problems, high-risk behaviors, and psychological disorders within and outside of the family court system.
She also said that the pleasant weather also urges sex lovers outdoors, where they’re likely to socialize and meet potential new partners. “It encourages us to shed some of the bulky layers we’ve been wearing all winter too. People are coming out of hibernation, and they’re swapping out their sweats and comfy clothes for more, shall we say, ‘scantily clad’ options.”
“They are exposing more body parts. As humans we notice those things, and it makes us more apt to go into mating mode.”
Whether you are looking for a casual hookup or you just want to get more loving from your partner, Spring will boost your desire. According to a study published in the US National Library of Medicine, animal mating habits are directly correlated to the changing of the seasons.
“We’re attuned to our biological clocks. Our bodies know that offspring survival rates soar when the weather is warmer; food is plentiful, climate is temperate and no one will freeze to death. Therefore, when Spring hits and warm weather abounds, our biological mating siren is ticked off.”
Now, while there is conflicting discourse on whether Spring fever is an actual illness, most scientists agree that there are documented psychological changes associated with the change in season.
“Spring fever is not a definitive diagnostic category. But I would say it begins as a rapid and yet unpredictable fluctuating mood and energy state that contrasts with the relative low winter months that precede it,” said Michael Terman, Director of the Center for Light Treatment and Biological Rhythms at Columbia University Medical Center.
WeekendLife
Glotto to showcase at New York Fashion Week
The country’s Afrocentric and most popular youth fashion brand, Glotto, continues to dominate the fashion industry and shape fashion trends. It is reaching heights and staying relevant in a fast-paced and ever-changing landscape. Without doubt, the youthful fashion brand has revolutionized the fashion and lifestyle industry in Botswana.
Not only that, its iconic logo and tagline have become synonymous with style and sophistication, and Glotto’s influence extends far beyond the world of fashion. Haute couture, elegant designs and ready to wear is what Glotto has to offer.
New York Fashion Week (NYFW), a semi-annual series of events in Manhattan typically spanning seven to nine days when international fashion collections are shown to buyers, the press and fashion enthusiasts is coming up, and Glotto has been invited to showcase at the same top fashion event.
This is one of four major fashion weeks in the world, collectively known as the “Big Four”, along with those in Paris, London and Milan. This year’s NYFW schedule includes a range of runway shows and presentations for both men’s and women’s clothing lines.
Designers such as Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, The Blonds, Proenza Schouler and Carolina Herrera will be showcasing their upcoming collections in a variety of different formats ranging from traditional runway shows to virtual showrooms and digital activations.
NYFW organizers say every great designer began as an “unknown”, so in addition to some of fashion’s most storied names, their schedule includes independent and emerging designers, many making their appearance on the runway for the first time.
“This is where NYFW becomes a true journey of discovery, the perfect opportunity to discover emerging designers who are pushing the boundaries of fashion and style. Some are new, and others are successful designers in their home country making an appearance at NYFW for the first time.”
Talking about making an appearance at the NYFW, WeekendLife had a conversation with the creative behind Glotto, Mboko Basiami this week, who unpacked how she was invited to showcase in New York and how things are unfolding.
When speaking to this publication, Basiami said a series of invitations were sent via email and social media, inviting her to be a part of the fashion week, something that she wouldn’t trade for anything.
She expanded a bit on collections that she will be showcasing, saying “It’s a seven-look collection and this is our first time participating in the NYFW. Glotto was founded seven years ago and everything is going to come altogether and of course, our attention to detail and texture and a lot of storytelling is what fashion lovers should expect.”
Quizzed if this is a self-sponsored trip to New York, Basiami stressed that in the business of fashion, one can’t expect to have talented runway models, hair, makeup and two assistants sponsored, therefore the trip will be taking money from her pockets. “It is heavily subsidized but there is still a 7000 US Dollar bill to it.”
Networking, global reach and exposure is what is motivating Glotto to go and shine in Manhattan. This is predominantly because New York Fashion Week has been there for so many years, having established itself as the most reputable fashion week in the whole world.
There is the media, right buyers, great location, investors and scholarships. “It will also allow me to compare the quality of my garments with that of designers all over the world. This adds on our unique product offering and what makes Glotto competitive, something that we have been striving for even though we are a local brand.
In preparing for this phenomenal opportunity, a lot needs to be done and thus far, everything is on track. According to Basiami, “I’m trying to balance not worrying about the business and accounts side of things, but rather about the looks and integrity of garments and fashion sustainability. We have reached out corporates who are willing to support us on the journey, the moral support is beautiful and heartwarming.
Meanwhile, Glotto recently showcased at the US-Africa Business Summit in Gaborone. The fashion brand hosted President Mokgweetsi Masisi, who was introduced to ready to wear collections and Glotto live mannequins.