Frequently Asked Questions

Product Information

What grade are your vanilla beans?

All Muqur vanilla beans are Grade A (Gourmet Grade), meeting the highest industry standards for moisture content (30-35%), length (6-8 inches), and appearance. Grade A beans are plump, oily, and packed with seeds—ideal for both culinary applications and extract making.

Where are your beans sourced?

Our beans are sourced directly from farming cooperatives in Uganda's Bundibugyo and Kasese districts, located in the western highlands near the Rwenzori Mountains. This region's high altitude, consistent rainfall, and rich volcanic soil produce vanilla with exceptionally high vanillin content.

How does Uganda vanilla compare to Madagascar?

Both origins produce Vanilla planifolia, but with distinct flavor profiles:

Uganda: Rich notes of dark chocolate, fig, and caramel with earthy undertones. Higher average vanillin content. Two annual harvests ensure fresher beans.

Madagascar: Classic creamy, sweet vanilla profile with subtle cherry notes. The industry standard for general-purpose vanilla.

Uganda beans are increasingly preferred by professional pastry chefs and extract makers for their complexity and intensity.

What is the shelf life of your beans?

Properly stored vanilla beans maintain optimal quality for 12-18 months, though they remain usable for 2+ years. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark location. Do not refrigerate—cold temperatures cause condensation that promotes mold growth.

Ordering & Shipping

What are your shipping options?

United States:

• Standard shipping: 3-5 business days
• Free shipping on orders over $25

International:

• Available to most countries
• Delivery times vary by destination (typically 7-14 business days)

All orders are processed within 1-2 business days.

How are the beans packaged?

All beans are vacuum-sealed in food-grade pouches immediately after final quality inspection. Vacuum sealing preserves moisture content, aroma, and freshness during transit and storage.

Do you offer wholesale pricing?

Yes. We work with bakeries, restaurants, food manufacturers, and specialty retailers. Contact us for wholesale pricing on orders of 100+ beans.

Email: wholesale@muqur.com

Usage & Storage

How many beans do I need for homemade extract?

The standard ratio is 5-6 Grade A beans per 8oz (1 cup) of 70-80 proof alcohol. For double-strength extract, use 10-12 beans per 8oz.

Recommended spirits: Vodka (neutral flavor), bourbon (warm caramel notes), or rum (subtle sweetness).

Timeline: Minimum 8 weeks for usable extract; 6-12 months for optimal flavor development.

How should I store my vanilla beans?

• Store in an airtight container (glass jar recommended)
• Keep in a cool, dark location (pantry or cabinet)
• Ideal temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C)
• Do not refrigerate—condensation promotes mold
• Check monthly; air briefly to prevent moisture buildup

Can I use these beans for baking?

Absolutely. Grade A beans are ideal for baking and culinary applications. Split the bean lengthwise, scrape out the seeds (caviar), and add directly to your recipe. The spent pod can be saved for extract or vanilla sugar.

My beans appear to have white crystals. Is this mold?

Likely not. White crystalline deposits on vanilla beans are typically vanillin crystals—a natural occurrence indicating high vanillin content and proper curing. Vanillin crystals appear as fine, frost-like sparkles.

Mold, by contrast, appears as fuzzy gray or white patches. If you suspect mold, contact us with photos and we'll resolve the issue promptly.

Returns & Quality

What is your return policy?

We stand behind our product quality. If you're unsatisfied with your order for any reason, contact us within 14 days of delivery for a full refund or replacement. No questions asked.

What if my beans arrive damaged?

Contact us immediately with photos. We'll ship a replacement at no charge.

About Muqur

Why are your prices lower than other Uganda vanilla suppliers?

We source directly from Ugandan farming cooperatives, eliminating importers, distributors, and other intermediaries that typically add 200-400% markup. Direct trade allows us to offer premium beans at fair prices while ensuring farmers receive competitive compensation.

Are your beans organic?

Our partner farms use traditional cultivation methods without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. While we do not currently hold formal organic certification, our sourcing practices align with organic principles.

Do you have a physical location?

We operate as an e-commerce business with distribution from the United States. For business inquiries, please use our contact form or email.

Contact

General inquiries: [contact@muqur.com] Wholesale: [wholesale@muqur.com] Response time: Within 24 hours

Additional questions? We're happy to help. Reach out anytime.