Madagascar’s vanilla becomes a source of flavour innovation

IFF opened its Vanilla Innovation Center in Toamasina on 11 May 2026. The 650 m² facility brings together vanilla analysis, extraction, flavour creation and product-development applications for categories such as dairy, bakery and confectionery, close to the country’s vanilla-growing regions.

The centre was opened by IFF. Adam Jańczuk, senior vice-president for Research, Creation and Design in Taste, presented its approach to creating value at origin.

Madagascar produces one of the world’s most recognisable flavour ingredients. Developing new applications close to where vanilla is grown connects agricultural knowledge with product design, food innovation and higher-value expertise.

The facility creates a place where local raw materials can inform the flavour development and finished consumer products sold in international markets.