Educational Guide
Ceylon Cinnamon vs. Cassia: How to Tell the Difference
Did you know that over 80% of the cinnamon sold in supermarkets worldwide is not true cinnamon? It is Cassia (Cinnamomum cassia), a hard, pungent bark originating from China or Indonesia. At Amber & Bark (also written as Amber and Bark), we specialize exclusively in Cinnamomum verum, authentic Ceylon Cinnamon from Southern Sri Lanka.
1. Coumarin Levels & Health Safety
Coumarin is a natural compound that can cause liver toxicity when consumed regularly in significant amounts.
• Cassia Cinnamon: Contains high levels of Coumarin (~1% or up to 10,000 mg/kg).
• Ceylon Cinnamon (Amber & Bark): Contains only ~0.004% Coumarin (~40 mg/kg), over 250 times less.
2. Flavour Profile
Cassia has a harsh, spicy, bitter punch. Ceylon Cinnamon is subtle, floral, naturally sweet, and complex, ideal for wellness tea, fine pastries, coffee, and gourmet dishes.
- Ceylon Cinnamon Sticks: Composed of paper-thin layers rolled into a cigar-like quill. Soft, delicate tan/amber color, and crumbles easily by hand.
- Cassia Sticks: Thick, hard, hollow single layer of dark reddish-brown bark. Extremely hard to break.
3. Flavor Profile & Cooking Uses
Cassia has a harsh, spicy, bitter punch. Ceylon Cinnamon is subtle, floral, naturally sweet, and complex — ideal for wellness tea, fine pastries, coffee, and gourmet dishes.
Experience Authentic Ceylon Cinnamon
Explore Amber & Bark's single-origin C5, C4, and Alba Ceylon quills direct from Galle, Sri Lanka.
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