Ceylon Cinnamon
Ceylon Cinnamon, known as “True Cinnamon,” is a prized spice from Sri Lanka. With its sweet aroma, delicate flavor, and rich history, it stands out as the purest and most sought-after cinnamon in the world.
Introduction
Known as the “True Cinnamon,” Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) is a treasured spice native to the tropical island of Sri Lanka, renowned for its delicate flavor, health benefits, and rich heritage. Unlike the more common Cassia variety, Ceylon Cinnamon is prized for its mild aroma, sweet taste, and low coumarin content, making it the preferred choice for culinary and medicinal use worldwide.
The Legacy of Ceylon Cinnamon
Ceylon Cinnamon, native to Sri Lanka, has been valued for thousands of years for its unique aroma and health benefits. Ancient civilizations used it in medicine, rituals, and trade. Arab merchants introduced it to Europe, where it became a luxury spice. During colonial times, the Portuguese, Dutch, and British controlled its trade and cultivation. Today, Sri Lanka remains the world’s leading producer of true cinnamon, continuing a proud legacy of quality and tradition.
Ceylon Cinnamon vs. Cassia
Ceylon Cinnamon, known as “True Cinnamon,” comes from Sri Lanka and has a light, sweet flavor with soft, paper-like layers. Cassia, mostly from Indonesia and China, is darker, thicker, and has a stronger, spicier taste. Ceylon contains very low coumarin, making it safer for regular use, while Cassia has high coumarin levels that can be harmful in excess. Ceylon is premium and more expensive, while Cassia is cheaper and more common.
Ceylon Cinnamon Varieties
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Grades
Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), or “True Cinnamon,” is classified into grades based on the diameter of the quill, aroma, color, and overall quality. The main grades are defined by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI).
Alba
Finest grade; ultra-thin quills (6–7 mm diameter), light golden-brown color, smooth texture, and delicate aroma.
C5 Special
Slightly thicker than Alba (8–10 mm), smooth texture, rich aroma, and golden-yellow hue.
C5
Smooth, golden-yellow cinnamon sticks, slightly thicker than C5 Special, with a gentle fragrance and clean flavor. Diameter around 8–10 mm.
C4
Light brown, uniform quills with moderate thickness (10–12 mm), offering a stronger aroma and warm sweetness.
M5
Darker brown color, slightly coarser texture, and thicker sticks with a robust cinnamon aroma. Diameter around 12–15 mm.
M4
Similar to M5 but slightly lower in refinement; thicker quills with a more pronounced aroma and deeper brown shade.
H1
Heavier, thicker cinnamon quills with coarse texture and darker brown tones.
H2
Thicker and darker sticks with a more fibrous texture and stronger, spicier notes.
Cinnamon Products
Cinnamon Quills (Sticks)
Hand-rolled, premium quills available in all major grades for global retail and processing markets.
Cinnamon Powder
Cold-milled to preserve aroma and flavor, available in multiple mesh sizes for retail packs or bulk use.
Cinnamon Oil & Extracts
High-potency essential oil and natural extracts for pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and flavor industries.
Market Applications
Ceylon Cinnamon is widely used across industries
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