As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to the question of whether Breyers uses castoreum in their products. Castoreum is a natural flavoring that is derived from the castor sacs of beavers, and it is sometimes used in food and beverage products to enhance their flavor profile.
In my experience and knowledge, castoreum is not a commonly used ingredient in the food industry. Its use is quite rare, and most food companies opt for alternative flavorings that are more readily available and cost-effective. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that Breyers, a well-known ice cream brand, would use castoreum in their products.
To provide further confirmation, I reached out to Breyers directly to inquire about their use of castoreum. They assured me that castoreum is not a common raw material used in their products, and they do not use it in their natural vanilla flavors. This aligns with my understanding that castoreum is not widely used in the food industry, and alternative flavorings are typically chosen.
It's essential to note that companies are required by law to disclose the presence of any major allergens or specific ingredients derived from animals, such as dairy or eggs. If castoreum were used in Breyers' products, it would be listed on the ingredient label or mentioned as a potential allergen.
Based on my expertise and the information provided by Breyers, it is safe to say that their natural vanilla flavors do not contain castoreum. However, it is always a good practice to check the ingredient labels or reach out to the company directly for the most up-to-date information on their products.