How to Spot Real Ceylon Cinnamon vs. Fake Cassia in Seconds

Not all cinnamon is created equal and knowing the difference could impact your health, your recipes, and your wallet. While most store-bought cinnamon is actually Cassia, the true gem is Ceylon cinnamon, also known as “True Cinnamon.”

But how can you tell the difference quickly? Here’s how to spot real Ceylon cinnamon in seconds and why it matters.

The Two Types of Cinnamon: Ceylon vs. Cassia

Before we dive into identification, let’s understand the difference:

Feature	Ceylon Cinnamon (True)	Cassia Cinnamon (Fake/Imitation)
Origin	Sri Lanka	China, Indonesia, Vietnam
Appearance	Thin, multiple-layered bark	Thick, single hard layer
Color	Light tan or golden-brown	Reddish-dark brown
Taste & Aroma	Subtle, sweet, citrusy	Harsh, spicy, pungent
Coumarin Content	Very low (safe for daily use)	High (can be toxic in excess)
Price	More expensive	Cheaper, widely available

5 Quick Ways to Identify Real Ceylon Cinnamon

1. Look at the Stick Structure

Hold up a stick and examine it:

Ceylon sticks are soft, layered like a rolled cigar, and you can break them easily by hand.
Cassia is thick, hard, and curls inward on one side only.

✅ If it looks like a cigar and snaps easily, it’s Ceylon.

2. Check the Color

Ceylon is a light tan or golden brown.
Cassia is darker, often reddish-brown.

✅ Lighter means purer. Ceylon cinnamon has a golden glow.

3. Smell the Aroma

Crush a small piece and smell it:

Ceylon has a mild, sweet, floral scent.
Cassia smells stronger, spicier, and more aggressive.

✅ If the smell is soft and sweet, it’s real.

4. Taste Test (Optional)

Ceylon tastes subtly sweet and citrusy.
Cassia can be spicy and slightly bitter.

⚠️ Don’t consume Cassia regularly it contains high levels of coumarin, which may harm the liver in large amounts.

5. Read the Label (But Don’t Rely on It Alone)

Sometimes products labeled as “cinnamon” are actually Cassia. Look for:

“Cinnamomum verum” or “Ceylon Cinnamon” on the ingredient list.
“Cinnamomum cassia”, “Saigon cinnamon,” or “Korintje cinnamon” = NOT Ceylon.

Always verify the scientific name if you’re buying online.

Why Choosing Ceylon Cinnamon Matters

Health: Ceylon has negligible coumarin safe for daily use.
Flavor: Delicate, smooth taste perfect for cooking and wellness.
Purity: Grown mainly in Sri Lanka under strict quality standards.

Where to Buy Real Ceylon Cinnamon

Avoid falling for cheap imitations. At CinnamonSL.com, we provide 100% authentic Ceylon cinnamon sticks and powder, directly sourced from trusted Sri Lankan farms.

Shop now and taste the truth of real cinnamon.