J N Gurudutt is an architect-turned-hitech agriculturist. He spoke to indiamarkets about growing vanilla in India.

What is vanilla and how is it used in food processing?
Vanillin is the extract of vanilla, which is an orchid.  It is used for perfumes and as a food flavour. Artificial or synthetic vanilla is made of petrochemicals and is said to be carcinogenic. There is a preference the world over now for natural vanilla and it therefore has good potential as a crop.

What conditions are needed to grow vanilla?
Vanilla is a shade loving orchid and needs foliage - it needs 50 per cent shade. Vanilla comes from an orchid that needs high moisture and high humidity. Temperate climate combined with artificial moisture like Bangalore are ideal for growing vanilla. High investments are needed as well. After the first three years, vanilla yields a crop every year.

Are there any organisations that vanilla growers have formed?
The Vanilla growers Association at Hiriyadka near Udupi in Karnataka happens to be the only organisation through which marketing of vanilla takes place. The organisation exports vanilla seeds and works towards popularisng the growing of vanilla. It has only a few members at present. The association stresses the need for farmers to grow vanilla along with other crops to ensure that a drop in vanilla prices does not leave them without any choice. They should grow it along with other crops so that they are cushioned against any fall in prices of vanilla.

What kind of processing does vanilla need?
The processing is a complex procedure where the raw, green beans have to be dried – the process needs sophisticated ovens. In India, crude methods are used. The process is a critical one wherein the moisture has to be eliminated while retaining the oleoresins, which make up the flavour and smell. Processing is done through the solvent extraction process and involves firstly, removing moisture and second, removing vanillin.

Where does vanilla grow? How much is the world consumption ?
Typically, vanilla is grown in Madagascar, the Caribbeans tropics and sub tropical areas. In India, growing vanilla has been kept a secret. It is ideal for growing in Kerala and the North East. The market at home is rather primitive - the world market though is large. To cater to the world market, large volumes are needed.  Out of the total world consumption of 3,000-4,000 tonnes, India contributes 2.4-2.8 tonnes.

How much vanilla is used in India?
One drop of essence is adequate to flavour several kilograms of food. For the local market, the locally produced vanilla is more than enough. Food eating habits are such that very little processed food is eaten.

What is the future for vanilla growers in India?
Vanilla has a bright future. India must use more vanilla in its foods and bring in sophisticated machinery. Most of the exports are to USA and Europe. The processed beans one kg sells for $US 20. About 100 kg of golden bean vanilla yields 2.5 kg of extract.