Understanding Simply Organic's Cinnamon Selection
Simply Organic, an all-organic spice brand, provides consumers with a transparent choice by offering different types of cinnamon to suit various culinary needs. The company understands that the source of the spice significantly impacts its taste and characteristics. Rather than using a single, generic type, they procure high-quality organic versions of the most popular cinnamon varieties for their products.
Simply Organic's Core Cinnamon Varieties
Simply Organic features several distinct cinnamon products, with the type clearly specified on the label. The primary varieties you will encounter include:
- Korintje Cinnamon: Often found in the standard "Ground Cinnamon" product, Korintje is a type of Cassia cinnamon sourced from Indonesia. It provides the classic, sweet-and-spicy flavor profile that most American consumers associate with cinnamon. Simply Organic uses a high-grade Korintje (Cinnamomum burmannii) in both its ground and stick formats, known for its rich, full-bodied aroma.
- Ceylon Cinnamon: This is labeled as "Ceylon Ground Cinnamon" and is considered "true cinnamon" (Cinnamomum verum). It is known for its milder, more delicate, and complex flavor, which includes fruity and citrusy notes. Simply Organic's Ceylon cinnamon is sourced from a cooperative partner in Sri Lanka. Its subtle flavor is highly prized for use in finer desserts and dishes where the cinnamon is not meant to overpower other ingredients.
- Vietnamese Cinnamon: Also a type of Cassia (Cinnamomum aromaticum), Vietnamese or Saigon cinnamon is noted for its intensely sweet and spicy flavor, as well as its vibrant color. It has a higher oil content than other cassia varieties, making its flavor particularly potent. Simply Organic's Vietnamese cinnamon is sought after by those who want a bold, robust cinnamon flavor in their baking and cooking.
The Key Differences: Ceylon vs. Cassia
The most significant distinction lies between Ceylon cinnamon and the various Cassia types. This difference goes beyond just flavor and has important health and culinary considerations. While Simply Organic provides excellent organic versions of both, understanding their profiles helps you make the right choice for your needs.
Cinnamon Comparison Table
| Feature | Simply Organic Ceylon | Simply Organic Cassia (Korintje/Vietnamese) |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Mild, delicate, sweet with complex citrus and floral notes. | Strong, spicy, and pungent with a powerful, classic cinnamon taste. |
| Appearance | Lighter, buff-colored, and finely ground. Sticks are thin and crumbly. | Darker, reddish-brown. Sticks are thick and hard. |
| Coumarin Content | Very low levels. Considered safe for regular, higher-dose consumption. | Higher levels. Can be toxic to the liver in very high doses. |
| Best For | Finer desserts, toppings, Mexican cuisine, and beverages. | Classic American baked goods, stews, and dishes where a strong cinnamon flavor is desired. |
| Source | Sri Lanka. | Indonesia (Korintje), Vietnam (Vietnamese). |
Health Considerations for Cinnamon Consumption
For those who use cinnamon regularly, particularly for its potential health benefits, the distinction between Ceylon and Cassia is particularly relevant due to the presence of a natural compound called coumarin.
Cassia cinnamon contains significantly higher levels of coumarin, which can cause liver damage if consumed in very high doses over an extended period. Health authorities often recommend moderating intake of cassia for individuals with liver concerns or those who consume cinnamon frequently.
In contrast, Ceylon cinnamon has only trace amounts of coumarin, making it the safer option for consistent, higher daily intake. The health benefits often associated with cinnamon—such as its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties—are present in both types, but Ceylon is the preferred choice if you plan to use it daily as a supplement.
Conclusion: Simply Organic Provides Informed Choices
Simply Organic empowers its customers by transparently labeling the type of cinnamon they are buying. The company’s commitment to organic sourcing ensures that whether you choose the mild and complex notes of Ceylon, the classic warmth of Korintje, or the intense kick of Vietnamese cinnamon, you are getting a pure, high-quality product. This allows you to select the perfect cinnamon for your recipe, considering both taste and potential health impacts. By offering this variety, Simply Organic caters to a wide range of culinary traditions and preferences, making them a reliable choice for discerning home cooks.
For more information on the brand's products and sourcing practices, you can visit the Simply Organic Website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Simply Organic's Ground Cinnamon and Ceylon Cinnamon? Simply Organic's Ground Cinnamon is a high-grade Cassia, specifically Korintje, with a strong, spicy flavor, while its Ceylon Cinnamon is Cinnamomum verum, known for its milder, delicate, and sweeter taste.
Is Simply Organic's standard ground cinnamon Cassia? Yes, the standard Simply Organic Ground Cinnamon product is a high-grade Korintje, which is a type of Cassia (Cinnamomum burmannii).
Which Simply Organic cinnamon is better for daily health use? If you plan to consume cinnamon daily for its health benefits, Simply Organic's Ceylon Cinnamon is the better choice because it contains significantly lower levels of coumarin, which can be harmful to the liver in high doses.
Where does Simply Organic source its Ceylon cinnamon? Simply Organic sources its Ceylon cinnamon from Sri Lanka, working directly with cooperative partners to ensure quality and sustainability.
Can I use any Simply Organic cinnamon in any recipe? While all can be used, the best choice depends on the desired flavor intensity. Use Ceylon for subtle sweetness in desserts and beverages, and opt for Cassia (Korintje or Vietnamese) when you need a stronger, spicier flavor for baked goods and savory dishes.
Does Simply Organic offer a Vietnamese cinnamon? Yes, Simply Organic offers a Vietnamese cinnamon known for its intense, sweet flavor and high oil content.
How can I tell which type of Simply Organic cinnamon I have? The package label will clearly indicate the type. The specific "Ceylon Ground Cinnamon" is marked as such, while the other varieties are labeled as "Ground Cinnamon" (Korintje) or "Vietnamese Cinnamon".
