How much does a vanilla pod weigh?
Average weight of a vanilla pod
On average, a vanilla pod weighs between 3 and 5 grams. However, this weight can vary considerably according to species, size and growing conditions. Here’s an estimate of the average weight by species:
- Vanilla Planifolia (Bourbon): 3 to 5 grams per pod, with moderate moisture content.
- Vanille x Tahitensis (Tahiti): 9 to 12 grams, often fleshier and moister.
- Vanille Pompona: 10 to 15 grams, with thicker and often longer pods.
This variability is partly explained by differences between species. Planifolia, Tahitensis and Pompona vanillas each have their own characteristics, which influence their weight.
The importance of pod size
Pod size matters! Longer pods are not only heavier, but also richer in beans. The size of the vanilla bean therefore influences not only its aroma, but also its market price.
Pod size depends on many factors. These include species, nutrients and the number of fertilized flowers per inflorescence. Nutrient intake is distributed among all fertilized flowers. So, if too many flowers are fertilized, some will only produce small “aborted” pods for lack of nutrients. By fertilizing only a few flowers, we encourage their development and thus their size and aromatic richness.
Does origin influence the weight of a vanilla pod?
Geographical origin plays an obvious role in the weight of vanilla beans. In fact, climate and drying method are no strangers to the final weight of the vanilla bean. Drying conditions, whether in the sun or under cover, influence the moisture content of the vanilla pod.
For the same result, depending on the region, vanilla beans may need to be dried for longer. For this reason, the experience of the preparers is essential. By simply massaging the beans, an experienced preparer can estimate the moisture content of a bean. He will then decide whether or not to continue drying each one.
Humidity, a determining parameter
Moisture content is also an essential factor in understanding the variation in weight of a vanilla pod. To obtain one kilo of black vanilla (Planifolia), you need to use 6 to 7 kg of green vanilla… So there’s a huge loss in the weight of the pod during preparation. A prepared and matured vanilla pod has a moisture content of 25-30% for Planifolia vanilla, compared with 30-45% for Tahitensis vanilla.
How to choose a quality vanilla pod?
When buying vanilla beans, it’s useful to consider not only their size and weight, but also their appearance. Uniformity of color or any defects in appearance can downgrade a pod. On the other hand, a soft, shiny pod indicates good humidity and superior quality. A dry, brittle pod, on the other hand, is lighter and less aromatic.
The aroma released by the pods is of course an important factor in assessing its complexity. Finally, the humidity level, the method of cultivation (organic, agroforestry…), the origin, the species or the quality of preparation and ripening are all quality factors.
When it comes to choosing a quality vanilla bean, rely on NOROHY‘s expertise. We offer vanilla beans of different origins, species and sizes for gourmets and gourmets alike. Our organic Bourbon vanilla beans from Madagascar are available in 125g, 250g and 2.5kg bundles for professionals, or in tubes of 3 beans for individuals. NOROHY also offers full-bodied vanilla beans from French Polynesia. Our Tahitian vanilla is available in 2-pod tubes for families and in 125g or 250g for professionals. Several pod sizes are also available. Finally, pastry chefs and restaurateurs also have access to our Mexican Planifolia vanilla beans in 125g and 250g.