What Is Vanilla Extract?

Vanilla extract is made by soaking vanilla beans in alcohol, which extracts the flavor compounds from the beans. The result is a concentrated liquid used primarily in baking. There are two main types of vanilla extract: pure vanilla extract and imitation vanilla extract.

Pure Vanilla Extract: Contains a minimum of 35% alcohol by volume (ABV), equivalent to 70-proof liquor like vodka or bourbon.
Imitation Vanilla Extract: Typically contains much less alcohol, around 2% ABV, and is unlikely to cause intoxication.

Can Drinking Vanilla Extract Get You Drunk?

The short answer is yes; consuming enough pure vanilla extract can lead to intoxication. Given its high alcohol content, just a few ounces can have effects similar to drinking hard liquor. For instance, consuming four ounces of pure vanilla extract is roughly equivalent to drinking four shots of vodka.

However, it's essential to note that the amount of vanilla extract used in recipes is usually minimal, and when baked, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind only the flavor.

Health Risks

While it may seem harmless, drinking vanilla extract can pose serious health risks:

Alcohol Poisoning: Consuming large amounts of vanilla extract can lead to alcohol poisoning, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms include confusion, vomiting, slow or irregular breathing, and loss of consciousness.

Central Nervous System Depression: The ethanol in vanilla extract can depress the central nervous system, leading to slowed breathing and other severe side effects.

Unpleasant Side Effects: Drinking vanilla extract can cause stomach upset, headaches, and allergic reactions. The taste is also quite intense and may not be enjoyable in large quantities.

The Appeal to Teens

Unfortunately, the accessibility of vanilla extract makes it appealing to some teenagers looking for a quick buzz. Reports have surfaced of kids purchasing vanilla extract and consuming it, sometimes mixing it with other beverages to mask the flavor. This trend raises concerns for parents and guardians about underage drinking and the potential for alcohol-related incidents.

The danger lies in the quantity consumed. While a small amount used in baking is safe, drinking more than a couple of ounces can lead to intoxication. Here are some important points to consider:

Two ounces of pure vanilla extract can be enough to feel tipsy, similar to consuming two shots of hard liquor.
Signs of intoxication may include impaired judgment, dizziness, and nausea. If someone consumes more than a tablespoon or two, it’s crucial to seek medical advice.

Tips for Parents

To prevent misuse of vanilla extract in your home, consider the following strategies:

Store Safely: Keep vanilla extract on high shelves or in locked cabinets to limit access.
Educate: Talk to your children about the dangers of alcohol misuse and the serious consequences it can have.
Monitor Usage: Keep track of how much vanilla extract is used in cooking and baking.

Alternatives

If you're concerned about the alcohol content in vanilla extract, consider using alcohol-free vanilla flavoring. This option can provide the same flavor without the associated risks.

In summary, yes, you can get drunk off vanilla extract due to its high alcohol content, particularly in pure varieties. While it is often overlooked as a potential source of intoxication, the risks associated with consuming large amounts of vanilla extract are significant. Parents should be aware of this trend and take proactive steps to educate their children about the dangers of alcohol misuse. By understanding the risks and promoting safe practices, we can help prevent the misuse of this common kitchen ingredient.