Cinnamon powder

Description

1. General Overview

Cinnamon powder is a warm, fragrant spice made by grinding the inner bark of cinnamon trees, primarily Cinnamomum verum (true or Ceylon cinnamon) or Cinnamomum cassia (cassia cinnamon). Known for its sweet-spicy aroma and woody flavor, cinnamon powder is widely used in baking, cooking, beverages, and traditional medicine across the globe.

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2. Botanical & Agricultural Information

• Botanical Name: Cinnamomum verum or Cinnamomum cassia

• Common Names: Ground cinnamon, Dalchini (South Asia), Ceylon cinnamon, Cassia

• Plant Family: Lauraceae (laurel family)

• Origin: Native to Sri Lanka, India, and Southeast Asia

• Main Producers: Sri Lanka, Indonesia, China, Vietnam, India

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3. Types of Cinnamon Powder

• Ceylon Cinnamon (True Cinnamon):

  • Light brown, delicate texture, sweet and subtle flavor

  • Low coumarin content (safer for regular consumption)

• Cassia Cinnamon:

  • Darker, coarser, stronger flavor

  • Higher coumarin content (use in moderation)

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4. Production Process

1. Harvesting: Inner bark is peeled from young cinnamon branches.

2. Drying: The bark curls into quills while drying.

3. Grinding: Dried bark is ground into a fine, aromatic powder.

4. Packaging: Sealed in moisture-proof containers to preserve freshness and potency.

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5. Physical Characteristics

• Color: Golden to reddish-brown

• Texture: Fine, smooth powder

• Aroma: Sweet, warm, woody

• Flavor: Slightly sweet, spicy, and warming

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6. Culinary Uses

Cinnamon powder is incredibly versatile in both sweet and savory dishes:

• Baking: Cakes, muffins, cookies, pies, pastries

• Spiced Beverages: Teas, lattes, hot chocolate, mulled wine, cider

• Savory Dishes: Curries, stews, rice dishes, Moroccan tagines

• Breakfast Foods: Oatmeal, smoothies, pancakes, granola

• Spice Blends: Garam masala, pumpkin spice, chai masala, ras el hanout

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7. Nutritional Profile (per 1 tsp / ~2.6g)

• Calories: ~6 kcal

• Carbohydrates: ~2g

• Fiber: ~1.4g

• Protein: ~0.1g

• Key Nutrients:

  • Calcium, manganese, iron, vitamin K

• Active Compounds:

  • Cinnamaldehyde (main flavor compound)

  • Eugenol, coumarin, polyphenols, and antioxidants

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8. Health Benefits

Cinnamon has been used traditionally for centuries for its medicinal properties:

• Antioxidant-Rich: Helps fight oxidative stress and free radicals

• Anti-Inflammatory: May reduce inflammation in the body

• Blood Sugar Regulation: May help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity

• Heart Health: Linked to reduced cholesterol and blood pressure

• Antimicrobial Properties: Helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi

• Brain Function: Some studies suggest cognitive protection and improved memory

Note: Cassia cinnamon contains higher levels of coumarin, which in excess can affect liver health. Ceylon cinnamon is safer for frequent use.

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9. Storage & Shelf Life

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight

• Shelf Life: Up to 1 year for peak flavor and aroma

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10. Sustainability

Cinnamon is a relatively sustainable crop when harvested ethically and organically. Choosing certified organic and fair-trade cinnamon helps support small-scale farmers and protect biodiversity.