When it comes to ordering coffee, there are countless choices available to you. Classic options like lattes or cappuccinos may suit you just fine, while for something truly unique there’s always French vanilla; while people’s tastes vary greatly there’s no doubt many love it and many believe French vanilla to be halal? But can we really trust those claims?

The FDA does not offer a definitive definition of vanilla syrup; however, they note that any product marketed as such should include both vanilla flavoring and some form of sweetener such as sugar or artificial sweeteners. If there are concerns regarding whether an individual vanilla syrup product meets these criteria for being considered halal, please reach out directly to its producer.

Tim Hortons French Vanilla Coffee Whithener may contain sugar, coffee whithener (corn syrup solids and partially hydrogenated coconut oil), sodium casenate (a milk derivative), diportassium phosphate sodium tripolyphosphate mono and diglycerides salt carboxmethyl cellulose gum as well as natural and artificial flavourings – according to eHalal’s listing, all the components listed as ingredients of this drink is considered halal according to Islamic law.

Vanilla extract is made by maceration of vanilla beans. The liquid extract produced is then evaporated to produce oleoresin, which can then be further processed into powdered vanilla. According to IFANCA regulations, no more than 0.5% alcohol may be used during processing of oleoresin production and must never come from forbidden (Khamr) sources.

As part of its membership in IFANCA, the company ensures all ingredients and processes used are halal. Technologists from IFANCA examined ingredients, sources, formulation and production processes to ensure they comply with halal requirements as well as labeling/packaging to confirm compliance.