Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon are both called "cinnamon" in stores, but they are different types. If you work in the food industry, knowing these differences is important, whether you are buying cinnamon for selling, mixing spices, or creating healthy products. This article explains what makes each type unique so you can choose the right cinnamon based on quality, price, and how you plan to use it.
Ceylon cinnamon, also called "true cinnamon," comes from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum verum tree. This tree mainly grows in Sri Lanka, India, and Madagascar. Ceylon cinnamon is known for its sweet taste and light tan color. Many chefs and health lovers prefer it for cooking because of its quality.
Cassia cinnamon comes from the Cinnamomum cassia tree. This tree mainly grows in China, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Cassia cinnamon has a strong, spicy taste and a dark reddish-brown color. It is easier to find and often cheaper than Ceylon cinnamon. Because of this, it is used in many food products. In terms of market share, Cassia cinnamon dominates due to its affordability and widespread use in the food industry. However, Ceylon is gaining popularity, especially in health-conscious markets.
As mentioned, Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon may look similar, but they differ significantly in quality, taste, and health impact. Here's a breakdown to help you understand which type suits your product or sourcing needs.
The name Ceylon Cinnamon is legally protected in places like the European Union and Sri Lanka, where it comes from. This means that only cinnamon made from the Cinnamomum verum plant in Sri Lanka can be called "Ceylon Cinnamon." For buyers and consumers, this protection ensures that the product is genuine, can be traced back to its source, and meets high-quality standards.
Nutrada matches food industry professionals with reliable suppliers of cinnamon. Buyers can easily filter options by type of cinnamon, how it is processed (whole, ground, or sticks), and certifications like organic or fair trade. This helps manufacturers find high-quality and affordable cinnamon that suits their production needs.
Ceylon cinnamon is known as "true cinnamon" because it comes from the Cinnamomum verum tree, with verum meaning "true" in Latin. This type of cinnamon is the original one, native to Sri Lanka, which used to be called Ceylon. It has been used for many years in traditional medicine, cooking, and trade.
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