The Battle of Cinnamon: Salon vs. Casia

TLDRSalon cinnamon, also known as true cinnamon, is healthier and sweeter than Casia, but Casia dominates the global market due to its lower price. Salon cinnamon is considered the best in the world, but it is often mixed with Casia or replaced completely. Sri Lanka, the main producer of Salon cinnamon, faces challenges in competing with the fraud and adulteration in the cinnamon industry. The European Union has granted a geographical indication tag to Salon cinnamon, but there are still difficulties in identifying the authenticity of cinnamon in the market.

Key insights

🌿Salon cinnamon, also known as true cinnamon, is healthier and sweeter than Casia.

💰Casia, a lower quality type of cinnamon, is cheaper and dominates the global market.

🎯Sri Lanka produces 90% of the world's supply of true cinnamon.

⚖️Mixing or replacing Salon cinnamon with Casia is a common practice due to their similar appearance.

🌍The cinnamon industry was once a highly valued spice in ancient world trade.

Q&A

What are the health benefits of Salon cinnamon?

Salon cinnamon boosts the immune system, lowers blood pressure, and stabilizes blood sugar.

Is Casia cinnamon unhealthy?

Casia cinnamon can be unhealthy in large amounts due to its high levels of cumerin, which can cause liver damage.

How can you tell the difference between Salon and Casia cinnamon?

Salon cinnamon sticks are thinner, lighter in color, and have a milder and sweeter taste compared to the thicker and spicier Casia cinnamon sticks.

Does the US regulate the amount of cumarin in cinnamon?

No, the US does not regulate the amount of cumarin in cinnamon, unlike countries like Germany.

How can consumers ensure they are buying authentic Salon cinnamon?

Look for products labeled with the geographical indication tag for Salon cinnamon or check the ingredients list for the botanical or species name of Salon cinnamon.

Timestamped Summary

00:01Salon cinnamon, also known as true cinnamon, was once as valuable as gold.

01:01Salon cinnamon is harvested in Sri Lanka, which produces 90% of the world's supply.

05:45Casia, a lower quality type of cinnamon, dominates the global market due to its lower price.

06:30Casia cinnamon contains high levels of cumerin, which can cause liver damage if consumed in high doses.

07:53Salon cinnamon sticks are thinner, lighter in color, and have a milder and sweeter taste compared to Casia cinnamon sticks.

08:40The European Union granted a geographical indication tag to Salon cinnamon to protect its authenticity.

09:58The cinnamon industry in Sri Lanka supports thousands of producers and plays a significant role in the country's economy.