What is the difference between Ceylon Cinnamon and Cassia?

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between regular Cassia cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon? Well, regular cinnamon comes from the Cinnamomum cassia tree, while Ceylon cinnamon is derived from the Cinnamomum verum, or 'true cinnamon' tree.

If you're looking for a quality cinnamon that delivers proven health benefits and is low in the toxic compound coumarin, Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume) is your best bet! Although it's more of an investment than varieties like Cinnamomum cassia, which are grown in China and other parts of Asia, it's worth it. That's because Ceylon cinnamon, which is native to Sri Lanka, boasts a more complex chemical composition and ultra-low levels of coumarin.

Also, if you're looking for a light and sweet cinnamon variety, true cinnamon or Ceylon cinnamon might just be the perfect fit! A bit rare and more expensive than Cassia cinnamon, historically Ceylon was the preferred cinnamon in Europe and North America. However, with changing trade systems, Cassia cinnamon has become the favoured choice.