Organic Vanilla or Non-Organic Vanilla?

Madagascar is world-renowned for its natural treasures. The large island is brimming with natural and organic products such as vanilla, cloves, coffee, peppers, and many other spices. Today, we’ll focus on which quality of vanilla to choose, especially between non-organic and organic Madagascar vanilla. You might wonder: should you choose natural vanilla or certified organic vanilla? Faced with this choice, the dilemma is real—it’s not easy at all, and it makes you question how these two types of vanilla are truly different. Spend a few more minutes with us and you’ll see things more clearly!

Non-organic and organic vanilla from Madagascar share several similarities, including their geographic origin, cultivation process, varieties, harvesting methods, and flavor profiles.

• Both types of vanilla can be found in Madagascar.
•  They are of the same variety, generally Vanilla planifolia, which is cultivated in Madagascar’s vanilla-producing regions. This variety produces the famous Bourbon vanilla beans.
• Both are grown in much the same way; for example, the newly planted vines are tied to a wooden support with natural fiber cords. Only natural materials are used in the cultivation of these two types of vanilla.
•  Both organic and non-organic vanilla are harvested by hand.
•  They give off the same scent, the same aromas, and they also taste the same.

You’re right, it seems these two types of vanilla are virtually identical. Despite a few minor—mainly economic—differences, both vanilla labels are natural.

Cultivation methods and certifications

Non-organic vanilla:

First of all, non-organic vanillas are produced using traditional farming methods. Farmers use age-old techniques to grow their vanilla.

Secondly, the producers don’t use chemicals or any type of fertilizer. It’s important to understand that vanilla is grown in tropical areas where it thrives in naturally favorable conditions.

Thirdly, what really sets it apart from organic vanilla farming is that there is no official commitment to follow the mandatory standards of organic farming. Due to financial constraints, farmers do not seek specific certifications.

Organic Vanilla:

Although organic vanilla also comes from natural farming, the difference lies in the fact that organic vanilla is grown according to organic farming standards. With organic vanilla from Madagascar, no chemicals are ever used. The cultivation methods may be less traditional and sometimes modernized, but non-organic products are never, ever used.

Internationally recognized certification bodies are setting up in Madagascar, including the renowned ECOCERT, which certifies products for export to many countries around the world such as Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan, India, among others. These certifying organizations establish rules and requirements to ensure that farmers operate in a strictly organic manner.

The equipment used and the cultivation processes all have to meet these strict conditions. So, organic farming is more complicated and, above all, more expensive. To give you an idea, certification costs can represent an entire year’s harvest income for farmers. Every step from planting to harvest requires extra care, which drives up costs even more to comply with the certifying body’s standards. As a result, organic vanilla producers are usually large vanilla farms.

Non-organic vanilla:

• Traditional farming is easier to carry out. Farmers can master the method from a young age.
• The continuation of ancestral practices secures the future of the population in terms of jobs and income, and the artisanal expertise of local farmers also guarantees the authenticity of Madagascar’s vanilla beans. They do this with joy and love.
• This type of vanilla is found everywhere vanilla grows, so it’s easier to find.
• Non-organic vanilla is less expensive, yet it still boasts beautiful natural aromas that make our dishes so flavorful. 

Certified Organic Vanilla from Madagascar

Organic vanilla has a reputation for being more environmentally friendly and healthier, which explains its growing appeal among consumers concerned about sustainability.

Organic vanilla is grown without any chemicals…This guarantees a purer, more natural product. In other words, the absence of chemicals is ensured.

Since organic vanilla is assessed and certified according to strict organic farming standards, consumers can be confident that they're buying vanilla produced through environmentally friendly and sustainable processes. Earning certification is therefore a mark of quality.

Organic vanilla production also ensures fair trade and a positive social impact. Knowing the vanilla was grown without chemicals makes people see the product as higher quality. This allows organic vanilla producers to sell their product at a fairer price, improving their living conditions more quickly. Organic farming also encourages better work practices that support local economic development.

• It’s now easier to answer this question.
• Both types of vanilla are completely natural, despite a few distinctive traits.
• To be sure about health and environmental concerns, certified organic vanilla is produced according to the strictest organic standards, all while preserving the unique flavors and aromas of this “black gold,” the island’s flagship product.
• Non-organic vanilla, produced using traditional methods without chemicals and preserving age-old artisanal know-how, guarantees the exotic flavors of Madagascar Bourbon vanilla. It also helps support small farmers and producers in Madagascar.

Thank you for joining us on this wonderful journey and inspiring discoveries of natural and organic vanilla from Madagascar. Feel free to contact us and visit our online store “vanillia” for an unforgettable tasting experience. See you soon!