Cinnamon

Cinnamon is the aromatic inner bark of Cinnamomum trees, sold as quills or ground powder and prized for its warm, sweet-spicy flavour. True cinnamon (C. verum) and the stronger cassia type differ in coumarin content, a point of regulatory interest since high coumarin intake raises liver concerns. It flavours bakery, confectionery, beverages, and savoury dishes worldwide. Quality assessment covers volatile-oil content, moisture, and freedom from adulteration with spent or exhausted bark, while proper dry storage protects the volatile compounds that give the spice its prized aroma.