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Which Indian State Probably Uses the Most Ceylon Cinnamon? A Flavorful Journey (Tea & Me)
- NITIN GUPTA
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Close your eyes and imagine the aroma of fresh chai, simmered with a stick of Ceylon cinnamon. Now, picture that scene in every kitchen, every street vendor cart, and every festive dessert shop. Across India, cinnamon is common—but true Ceylon cinnamon, with its delicate flavor and subtle sweetness, is still considered premium. Which part of India appreciates this premium spice most?
Where Cinnamon is Grown vs Where It’s Loved
Before we guess who uses the most, let’s clarify:
Kerala is the largest producer of cinnamon in India. Regions like Kannur, Idukki, and Kozhikode have long been centers for genuine cinnamon cultivation. Largest and Biggest+1
But production doesn’t always mean high use of premium Ceylon cinnamon. Most everyday cooking uses the cheaper Cassia cinnamon (often just called “dalchini”) because it’s more affordable and widely available.
So the states with high income, spice culture, health awareness, or strong Ayurveda traditions are more likely to consume more Ceylon cinnamon.
Likely Leaders in Consumption of Ceylon Cinnamon
Based on spice markets, culinary culture, import data, and regional preferences, here are states that probably lead in Ceylon cinnamon usage:
State | Why It Likely Uses More Ceylon Cinnamon |
Kerala | Spice growing state, strong tradition of using authentic spices; many small shops import or use premium Ceylon for teas & medicines. Also has local production. |
Tamil Nadu | Large population; strong culture of flavored teas, snacks, sweets that benefit from a gentler cinnamon flavor. Health food and Ayurveda interest is strong. |
Karnataka | Bengaluru and coastal regions have growing health-food markets; premium spice imports and tea shops prefer Ceylon for better flavor. |
Maharashtra (Mumbai / Pune) | Big urban centers, foodie culture, premium cafes, demand for authentic spices (like Ceylon cinnamon) for gourmet & wellness use. |
Delhi NCR | As capital region, more exposure to premium and imported products; higher purchasing power and demand for organic / wellness food items. |
Interesting Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
Sri Lanka still produces ~90% of the world’s pure Ceylon cinnamon. India imports a big share of its Ceylon from Sri Lanka. Business Insider+2Ankhangagri+2
India is one of the top importers of cinnamon globally; while most imports are Cassia, demand for true “Ceylon” labels is rising. Ankhangagri+1
In Kerala, some spice estates like Anjarakkandy Cinnamon Estate have historical roots, dating back to colonial times, focusing on higher quality bark and cinnamon processing. Wikipedia+1
What This Means for Tea & Me & For You
Here at Tea & Me, we see these trends:
People in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and major metro regions are increasingly choosing authentic Ceylon cinnamon sticks or quills vs cheaper powders.
Our premium Ceylon Cinnamon products are shipped across India; we notice more orders from Kerala and south India, followed by metro areas in Maharashtra & Karnataka.
As awareness grows of flavors and health (lower coumarin, better aroma), demand for true cinnamon is increasing in wellness teas, spiced chai, desserts, and herbal remedies.
How to Find Out if Your State Uses More Ceylon Cinnamon
If you’re curious where your state stands, try this:
Check spice markets – is Ceylon cinnamon labeled separately, and priced significantly higher?
Ask local chai / café shops what cinnamon they use — often they switch to premium for taste.
Check import / sales data from online retailers — Tea & Me keeps track: states with higher orders per capita tend to use more.
FAQs
Q1: Is there official data on which Indian state consumes the most Ceylon cinnamon?
A1: Not that we found. Most public data shows import volumes, state production (Kerala), but not clear consumption by state.
Q2: Why is Kerala likely the highest consumer?
A2: Because it grows cinnamon, has traditional spice use, strong Ayurvedic practices, and local awareness of premium spices.
Q3: Is Ceylon cinnamon more expensive than regular cinnamon?
A3: Yes. Due to its delicate flavor, lower coumarin content, and limited supply, it typically costs more than Cassia cinnamon.
Q4: Can someone in a non-spice producing state get authentic Ceylon cinnamon easily?
A4: Definitely — brands like Tea & Me deliver premium sticks or quills all over India. Also, look for certified labels and trusted sellers.
Q5: What are some uses of we choose Ceylon over Cassia?
A5: Uses include premium chai/tea blends, desserts where delicate flavor matters, herbal remedies, and skin care (because of gentler compounds).
Conclusion: State of Spice & The Beauty of Choosing Authentic
While there’s no definitive official ranking of Indian states by their usage of Ceylon cinnamon, combining production, culture, and urban demand suggests Kerala leads, followed by states with strong cultural food traditions, health awareness, and purchasing power.
At Tea & Me, we celebrate the richness of Ceylon cinnamon — not just for its taste, but for the tradition, health, and wonder it brings. Whatever your state, treating yourself to authentic Ceylon cinnamon is a small ritual with great reward.
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