An Aberdeen-based start-up has agreed a partnership with the University of St Andrews to showcase its hand-crafted vanilla.
The university’s catering team will be first to use the “sustainable” vanilla that is cured by Vanilla Labs, which is credited with “leading the way in sustainable, science-led vanilla production”.
The "disruptive" model developed by Vanilla labs is understood to incorporate ethical sourcing and proprietary technology, including curing processes that determine the final flavour and aroma to deliver "consistently high-quality, sustainable vanilla". Based at ONE SeedPod, Scotland's food and drink innovation hub in Aberdeenshire, Vanilla Labs is also cultivating its own vanilla orchid plants and hopes to bring fully Scottish-grown and cured vanilla to market before the end of next year.
Gillian Lane, co-founder and chief executive of Vanilla Labs, said: 'Having our Scottish-cured vanilla selected by the University of St Andrews, one of the world's oldest and most respected higher education institutions, and served at events hosting guests from all over the world is an extraordinary milestone for us.
"Vanilla is one of the world's most sought-after but misunderstood ingredients, and for too long has been blighted by volatility in the supply chain and inconsistent quality in the rush to extend shelf-life. Our science-led processes offer new level of certainty - batch-led, terrior-driven, and traceable from orgin to jar.
"We welcome the university's industry-leading vision and its incredible support for local produce. This partnership helps demostrate how Scotland can lead the way in sustainable food innovation."
