
Ceylon cinnamon, or Cinnamomum verum, differs from cassia cinnamon in appearance and flavor. True cinnamon is lighter brown and has a softer, sweeter aroma and taste. Cassia cinnamon is darker and possesses a stronger, more pungent, and astringent character. Physical characteristics like bark structure and brittleness offer initial identification clues. Checking product labels and being cautious with powdered forms aids accurate identification.