<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

One listmate has purchased vanilla beans 5 times from this online supplier, Vanilla Enchantment, and has had no problem with freshness:

http://www.kitchenproject.com/vanilla/Vanilla_Bean.html


Several people suggested trying Penzey's spices.  The vanilla bean I bought from them was the best of the 3 I had purchased, but still seemed a little off.  (I'm assuming that vanilla beans are supposed to have a pleasant fragrance). 

No one had any suggestions on where to buy fresh(er) coconuts.  I'm planning to try an Asian grocery next.  If anyone has any ideas, please let me know.

Thanks,
Diane Hosek

* Visit the Celiac Web Page at www.enabling.org/ia/celiac/index.html *