Vanilla essence

Vanilla essence

Flavoring

Item Rating: 64/100

1 serving (5 grams) contains 12 calories, 0.0 grams of protein, 0.0 grams of fat, and 0.5 grams of carbohydrates.

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571.4
calories
0
protein
23.8
carbohydrates
0
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)
Calories
571.4
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 0 g 0%
Saturated Fat 0 g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 0 mg 0%
Total Carbohydrates 23.8 g 8%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 23.8 g
protein 0 g 0%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 0 mg 0%
Iron 0 mg 0%
Potassium 0 mg 0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt

Source of Calories

100.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Fat: 0 cal (0.0%)
Protein: 0 cal (0.0%)
Carbs: 95 cal (100.0%)

About Vanilla essence

Vanilla essence, often used as a flavoring agent, is derived from cured vanilla beans, primarily grown in tropical regions like Madagascar, Mexico, and Tahiti. It is a staple in many cuisines, particularly in desserts, beverages, and baked goods. Pure vanilla extract contains trace amounts of alcohol and vanillin, the compound responsible for its signature aroma and flavor. Nutritionally, vanilla essence contributes negligible macronutrients but can have minor antioxidant properties thanks to vanillin. Imitation vanilla, commonly used due to its affordability, is synthetically produced and lacks the complexity and some potential health benefits of pure vanilla.

Health Benefits

  • Vanillin, the primary compound in vanilla, has antioxidant properties that help combat free radicals in the body.
  • Compounds in vanilla may exhibit mild anti-inflammatory effects, promoting better overall health.
  • Aromatherapy with vanilla scent has been suggested to help reduce stress and improve mood.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: None known
Suitable for: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free
Not suitable for: Alcohol-free diets

Selection and Storage

Store vanilla essence in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor and potency. Always seal the bottle tightly after use.

Common Questions About Vanilla essence Nutrition

Is vanilla essence high in calories or protein?

Vanilla essence is very low in calories and contains virtually no protein. A teaspoon of vanilla essence provides roughly 12 calories and is primarily made up of alcohol, water, and trace amounts of vanilla extract.

Can I use vanilla essence on a keto or low-carb diet?

Yes, vanilla essence is compatible with both keto and low-carb diets as it contains minimal carbohydrates—around 0.5 grams per teaspoon. However, ensure it's unsweetened to avoid added sugars.

Are there any health concerns with consuming vanilla essence?

In normal culinary amounts, vanilla essence is considered safe, but excessive consumption could be harmful due to its high alcohol content (35% or more). Always use it in moderation and avoid drinking it directly.

How much vanilla essence should I use in cooking or baking?

Typically, 1 to 2 teaspoons of vanilla essence is used per recipe, depending on the quantity of the dish and desired flavor intensity. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste if needed.

What’s the difference between vanilla essence and vanilla extract?

Vanilla extract is made from natural vanilla beans soaked in alcohol and water, while vanilla essence is usually a synthetic, imitation flavoring. Extract offers a richer, more authentic vanilla flavor and might be slightly higher in quality than essence.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.