Source:UPI Published: 2013-9-16 19:38:01
Anal secretions from beavers can be used in baked goods to create a taste that resembles vanilla, said The Swedish National Food Agency.
The agency confirmed the use of the anal passages after rumors about the beaver's secretions were circulated on the Internet, The Local.se reported.
"Natural aromas can be extracts from plants, fungi, and in some cases animals." Ulla Beckman Sundh, an agency representative reported.
But she said that the beaver is unlikely to become a common source of vanilla, as the supply is limited since the beaver is not bred.
Beavers were wiped out in Sweden in the 19th century, but the population has grown to 100,000 after the animal was imported, The Local.se said.
UPI