5 Signs You're Buying Authentic Ceylon Cinnamon
With so many cinnamon products on the market, it’s easy to get fooled by lower-quality Cassia cinnamon mislabeled as "Ceylon." Here’s how to spot real Ceylon cinnamon and avoid imposters.
CEYLON CINNAMON DEEP DIVESPICE KNOWLEDGE HUB
8/2/20251 min read
1. Check the Bark Texture & Layers
✔ Ceylon Cinnamon:
Soft, thin, and brittle - easily crumbles when pressed.
Multiple thin layers (like a cigar roll) - a sign of premium quality.
X Cassia Cinnamon:
Hard, thick, and tough - difficult to break or grind.
Single, tightly curled layer - no visible inner layers.
Test: Try snapping a stick - Ceylon breaks easily; Cassia is rigid.
2. Observe the Color & Appearance
✔ Ceylon Cinnamon:
Light tan to golden brown (paler than Cassia).
Smooth, delicate texture with visible quill layers.
X Cassia Cinnamon:
Dark reddish-brown (almost rusty).
Rough, uneven surface with no layered structure.
Tip: If the cinnamon looks dark and thick, it’s likely Cassia.
3. Smell & Taste the Difference
✔ Ceylon Cinnamon:
Sweet, floral, and citrusy - mild and complex.
No bitter aftertaste - pleasant and subtle.
X Cassia Cinnamon:
Strong, spicy, and pungent - overpowering.
Slightly bitter or peppery - harsh on the palate.
Taste Test: Brew a small amount in warm water - Ceylon will taste smoother.
4. Look at the Scientific Name & Origin
✔ Authentic Ceylon Cinnamon will be labeled:
"Cinnamomum zeylanicum" or "Cinnamomum verum" (scientific name).
"Product of Sri Lanka" (or "Ceylon").
X Cassia may be labeled as:
"Cinnamomum cassia" or "Cinnamomum aromaticum."
"Product of China, Vietnam, or Indonesia."
Warning: Some brands mix Ceylon & Cassia - check ingredients carefully!
5. Price & Packaging Clues
✔ Ceylon Cinnamon:
More expensive (due to labor-intensive production).
Often sold in sealed, high-quality packaging with origin details.
X Cassia Cinnamon:
Cheaper & widely available (common in supermarkets).
Often labeled simply as "cinnamon" without specifics.
Rule of Thumb: If it’s suspiciously cheap, it’s probably not true Ceylon cinnamon.
Bonus Test: The Iodine Trick (For Powdered Cinnamon)
Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon powder with a few drops of iodine.
✔ Ceylon cinnamon will turn light blue or no change.
X Cassia cinnamon will turn dark blue/black (due to high starch content).
Final Verdict: How to Ensure You’re Buying the Real Deal
✔ Buy from reputable brands specializing in Ceylon cinnamon.
✔ Check for certifications (e.g., "Pure Ceylon Cinnamon" seal).
✔ Opt for whole quills over powder (harder to adulterate).
