Vanilla Bean Tattoos

Amongst many problems that Madagascar vanilla bean farmers face are Cyclones (last one was Enawo in '17) and theft. Both can destroy 100% of the farmers crop.
Whilst Cyclones are in Gods hands, farmers do have one solution to protecting their crop, and that is to tattoo their beans. Theft not only hurts the farmer, it has an effect on this major export of Madagascar by bringing to market inferior quality vanilla beans and therefore lowering prices, in an already competitive market.

Vanilla farmers will often use their initials in either French, English, or Malagasy. They tattoo the beans when they are green, by using small pin pricks. Not every bean has a tattoo, just random beans.

I am always finding tattooed beans and will gladly add one to your order, if you would like me too.

For me, it is a connection to a family half way around the world who work very hard for us to enjoy the magnificent vanilla bean.