Tips To Recycle Old Vanilla Extract | Reuse & Recycle | Dr Vanilla (2024)

Tips To Recycle Old Vanilla Extract | Reuse & Recycle | Dr Vanilla (1)

Vanilla extracthave an incredible shelf life if stored properly and it usually varies between 3-4 years. But still, there are chances that the vanilla extract can go bad, and you definitely don’t want to take that chance in food. So read on to know if your vanilla extract is gone bad.


Change in odour: Vanilla extracts have alcohol which gives away the smell. If you doubt the purity of your vanilla extract, just give it a quick whiff, if you think the smell has faded from the first purchase it's better to discard it.


Formation of moulds: It is not natural for Moulds to form in Vanilla, but they may appear if you store them in refrigerator or in places with high moisture content, as our body will not welcome mould formed vanilla it's better to throw away the extract. You might also want to check the inside of cap for a cottony substance as they can eventually form toxic compounds that pose many health hazards.


Change in texture:Vanilla extracthas a vicious consistent texture throughout, but in case they have a cloudy or muddy appearance or if any impurities float inside the best thing to do is not to use the extract.


Change in flavour: Vanilla will be best within the time it should be used that is, within 3-4 years. If you notice a change in flavor, you better want to buy a new on for obvious reasons of course!
Still worried about your vanilla extract gone bad? Read on because we have a sweet surprise for you.

Where else can I use Vanilla apart from cooking? Recycle old vanilla extract.
Human nature is basically to recycle everything and yeah literally everything! So, if you are worried about throwing that expensive bottle of vanilla that you bought with very high expectations, you can relax now because we have a number of alternate places where you can use your old vanilla extract, well except cooking.
Clean & Clean: Most of the vanilla extract have alcohol content in them which makes them excellent cleaners. So, use them to clean those kitchen counters, by using a few drops and wiping them using a clean cloth, you can also add water to lower the concentration.
Bug Safe: Bugs don’t really love the cherished smell of vanilla, so when you are out for that family outing or picnic you may also grab a spray bottle of diluted vanilla extract to keep away those bugs.
Clean Fridge & Microwave: Soak some extract and wipe clean the fridge or put the vanilla extract in a bowl and microwave in full power for a minute it will clear the unwanted smell off the fridge and microwave.
Sweet Smelling Homes: Put a few drops of vanilla extract to the light bulb the heat will cause the drop to evaporate and spread fresh aroma.
Paint Fresh: Put a few drops of vanilla extract to paint before painting, now your home smells fresh and sweet like ever.

All the above hacks are useful depending on the expiry date on the vanilla extract, however if you see cloudy formations or loss of flavor and smell our best advice will be to throw it away, as said above they pose serious health hazards and as they say, prevention is always better than cure.

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Tips To Recycle Old Vanilla Extract | Reuse & Recycle | Dr Vanilla (2024)

FAQs

Tips To Recycle Old Vanilla Extract | Reuse & Recycle | Dr Vanilla? ›

Sweet Smelling Homes: Put a few drops of vanilla extract to the light bulb the heat will cause the drop to evaporate and spread fresh aroma. Paint Fresh: Put a few drops of vanilla extract to paint before painting, now your home smells fresh and sweet like ever.

What can I do with expired vanilla extract? ›

As long as it is not showing signs of going bad, you can still continue using it six months to a year after it's expiration date. Though, I would add more to the recipe to make up for the weakened flavor. However, both pure and imitation vanilla extract can go bad if not stored correctly.

Can you use 10 year old vanilla extract? ›

Does Real Vanilla Extract Expire? Pure vanilla extract—the kind made with real vanilla beans and at least 35 percent alcohol—has an indefinite shelf life. While safe, the flavor may deteriorate after a few years, especially if it's been stored improperly.

What to do with leftover vanilla extract? ›

6 Alternative Uses for Vanilla Extract
  1. Neutralise the Smell of Paint. A freshly painted house looks amazing, but often the smell is not. ...
  2. Home Sweet Home. ...
  3. Deodorising the Microwave. ...
  4. Freshen Up the Fridge. ...
  5. Keep Those Bugs Away. ...
  6. Squeaky Clean.

How can you tell if vanilla extract has gone bad? ›

Some lower-cost vanilla extracts or imitation extracts contain sugar and other additives that affect their shelf-life and make them more susceptible to spoilage. With these, look out for an off smell, diminished flavor, or even mold, especially if the bottle's been stored improperly.

When to throw out vanilla extract? ›

What is the shelf life of my vanilla extract? When stored properly, vanilla extract will keep indefinitely, but using it within five years will allow for best flavor and aroma. Do not refrigerate or freeze, even after opening.

How much vanilla to put in paint? ›

To neutralize the strong smell of any type of paint, add one tablespoon of vanilla extract (a natural deodorizer) per gallon. It won't affect the color of the paint.

Does vanilla extract get better as it ages? ›

Store vanilla at room temperature out of direct sunlight. Shake about once per week or once every couple of weeks. Vanilla can be ready to use in as little as 8 weeks, but I recommend at least 6 months for optimal flavor. 12+ months is great!

Why is vanilla sold in dark bottles? ›

Many bakers recommend choosing brown or darkly colored bottles to minimize the amount of light hitting the extract. We've found that clear bottles are fine as long as they are stored in a cool/dark place. Confirm that the bottle is closed tightly and will not allow leaks before moving onto storage.

Does McCormick vanilla extract expire? ›

If stored properly, Pure Vanilla Extract can last indefinitely. It will never spoil, and the flavor will enhance over time. You may notice some sediment in the bottom of the bottle if it has been sitting for an extended period. This is normal and is perfectly harmless as pure vanilla doesn't deteriorate with age.

Is it safe to put vanilla extract on your body? ›

It might also cause headache and sleep problems (insomnia), especially for people who manufacture vanilla extract. When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if vanilla is safe. Skin contact with vanilla can cause irritation and swelling (inflammation) in some people.

How do you use a lot of vanilla extract? ›

Other Ideas!
  1. In co*cktails. Vanilla extract can add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to co*cktails. ...
  2. In savory dishes. Vanilla extract can also be used in savory dishes to add a touch of sweetness and complexity. ...
  3. In coffee and tea. ...
  4. In smoothies. ...
  5. As a natural air freshener. ...
  6. In skin care products.
Jul 27, 2023

Is vanilla extract in coffee good? ›

So the answer is yes, you should absolutely add some vanilla extract to your coffee. It's a great way to flavor and sweeten your coffee, and it helps you out in more ways than one. But that raises the question: how should you enjoy your vanilla and your coffee? Well, here are some great coffee recipes for you to try.

Does vanilla extract repel bugs? ›

Vanilla extract is not only a great thing to cook with, but it also makes a great insect repellent–and it smells delicious! Mix it with water and apply it to your skin to repel pests. Add other extracts for even sweeter-smelling results, lavender and mint are great options.

Can vanilla extract get you drunk? ›

Vanilla extract may contain up to 35% ABV, which is the equivalent of a shot of hard liquor like vodka or bourbon. This means vanilla extract can get you drunk, but it also puts a person at risk of alcohol poisoning.

What to use instead of vanilla extract? ›

8 substitutes for vanilla extract
  • Vanilla paste. Vanilla paste — also called vanilla bean paste — is a mix of vanilla extract, vanilla beans, and sugar. ...
  • Vanilla powder. ...
  • Vanilla sugar. ...
  • Almond extract. ...
  • Maple syrup. ...
  • Honey. ...
  • Bourbon, brandy, rum, or vanilla liqueur. ...
  • Vanilla flavored plant-based milk.
Nov 12, 2021

What happens when extracts expire? ›

Flavoring extracts can evaporate over time. Most of the shelf life is between 6 months to 1 year, with the exception of pure vanilla extract. Pure vanilla extract can improve with age if stored in a dark cool place.

Can you use vanilla extract to clean? ›

Cleaning with vanilla extract is a great natural alternative to harsh chemical cleaners, leaving a pleasant scent behind. So the next time you're dealing with a smelly garbage disposal, try using this ice cube trick to freshen it up.

What is the use of vanilla extract in baking? ›

Vanilla extract and how important is it for the baking process. The primary purpose of vanilla extract is to add flavour to baked goods. Lacking it, baked goods tend to have a bland and boring taste. Vanilla extract can also contribute moisture to create a soft and fluffy texture.

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