Discover the importance of split cassia as an essential spice for wholesalers. Learn about its unique characteristics, versatile uses, and the benefits it offers to wholesale traders. Find out why including split cassia in your inventory is a smart choice for your business.
1. General information about split cassia
Split cassia refers to the dried bark of the Cinnamomum cassia tree, which has been peeled off and separated into smaller pieces or strips.
1.1. The special characteristics of split cassia
Split cassia, or split cinnamon, possesses several special characteristics that make it unique:
- Appearance: Split cassia comes in the form of long, slender strips or quills. These strips are created by carefully peeling off the outer layer of the cassia bark and separating it into smaller pieces. The resulting strips have a rough texture and a reddish-brown color.
- Aroma and Flavor: Split cassia has a warm and sweet aroma that is similar to that of cinnamon. Its flavor is slightly stronger and more robust than true cinnamon, with a pronounced sweetness and spiciness. The taste of split cassia can be described as bold and intense.
- Versatility: The split form of cassia bark makes it highly versatile in culinary applications. The strips are easier to handle and work with compared to whole cassia bark. They can be easily broken into smaller pieces or ground into a powder, depending on the desired use. The convenient size and shape of split cassia make it suitable for infusing flavors into dishes, as well as for garnishing.
- Culinary Uses: Split cassia is commonly used in various cuisines around the world. It is a key ingredient in many Asian dishes, including curries, stir-fries, soups, and desserts. It adds a warm and aromatic flavor to these dishes. Split cassia is also used in baking, particularly in pastries, cakes, cookies, and bread. Additionally, it is a popular choice for making spiced teas and beverages.
- Long Shelf Life: Like whole cassia bark, split cassia has a long shelf life when stored properly. It should be kept in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. When stored correctly, split cassia can retain its aroma and flavor for a significant period, allowing for its use over time.
These special characteristics make split cassia a favored spice in many cuisines, adding depth and warmth to a wide range of dishes.
1.2. Why split cassia is popular in the international market
Split cassia is popular in the international market for several reasons:
- Flavor and aroma: Split cassia’s robust flavor is sought after worldwide. Chefs and home cooks love it because its warm, sweet, and spicy flavor enhances many dishes.
- Split cassia can be used in sweet and savory dishes. It works with many flavors and ingredients, making it versatile. Many cooks prefer it because of its strip form, which makes it easy to handle and use.
- China, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian countries grow cinnamonomum cassia trees. Split cassia is readily available to consumers worldwide due to widespread cultivation.
- Split cassia is cheaper than cinnamon, making it a good choice for commercial and home cooking. Its lower price makes it more affordable and encourages culinary use.
- Culinary Traditions: Split cassia is a staple in Asian cuisine. China, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam are its culinary roots. Split cassia has grown in popularity as international cuisine becomes more popular and globalized.
- Garam masala and Chinese five-spice powder contain split cassia. International cuisine uses these blends. Split cassia is also used in cinnamon-flavored teas, beverages, confectionery, and baked goods, increasing its global demand.
- Split cassia is a popular spice worldwide due to its unique flavor, versatility, availability, affordability, and cultural significance.
2. Classify different types of split cassia in the market
In the market, you may find different types of split cassia based on various factors such as the origin, grade, and processing method. Here are some common types of split cassia:
- Chinese Cassia (Cinnamomum cassia): Chinese cassia is one of the most widely available types of split cassia. It is commonly sourced from China and is known for its strong, spicy flavor. Chinese cassia typically has thicker bark and a more intense aroma compared to other varieties.
- Indonesian Cassia (Cinnamomum burmannii): Indonesian cassia, also known as Padang cassia or Korintje cassia, is another popular type of split cassia. It is sourced from Indonesia and is characterized by its medium to dark brown color and a slightly sweeter flavor profile. Indonesian cassia is often considered milder in taste compared to Chinese cassia.
- Vietnamese Cassia (Cinnamomum loureiroi): Vietnamese cassia, also known as Saigon cinnamon, is highly regarded for its rich flavor and strong aroma. It is sourced from Vietnam and is considered to have a more complex and sweet taste compared to Chinese cassia. Vietnamese cassia typically has thinner and more fragile strips.
- Sri Lankan Cassia (Cinnamomum verum): Sri Lankan cassia, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, is a type of split cassia with a slightly different flavor profile compared to other varieties. It is known for its delicate and subtle taste with a hint of citrus notes. Sri Lankan cassia is generally considered to have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to Chinese cassia.
It’s important to note that the classification of split cassia can vary between suppliers and regions. The above types are some commonly recognized varieties, but there may be additional regional or specialized classifications based on specific sourcing and processing methods.
3. How to import split cassia from reliable suppliers
Importing split cassia from reliable suppliers requires several steps to ensure success. Split cassia import guidelines:
- Find Suppliers: Research trustworthy split cassia suppliers. Look for suppliers with good reviews, quality standards, and food safety certifications.
- Quality Assessment: Request samples from potential suppliers to evaluate split cassia quality. Assess aroma, flavor, appearance, and texture. Make sure the supplier meets your quality standards.
- Verify Credentials and Certifications: Make sure the supplier has the licenses, certifications, and international trade compliance. Food safety, quality, and import/export compliance certifications are included.
- Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and import fees. Discuss shipping, delivery, and import taxes in your country.
- Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Know your country’s import and customs laws. Make sure the split cassia supplier is familiar with labeling, documentation, and phytosanitary or other regulations.
- Order Placement and Contract: After choosing a supplier, negotiate a contract with all the purchase terms and conditions. Specify quantities, packaging, delivery dates, payment terms, and other important details.
- Transportation: Coordinate shipment logistics with the supplier. Packaging, shipping, and documentation like commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin are included. To maintain split cassia quality during transit, make sure the supplier uses proper packaging.
- Customs Clearance and Compliance: Work closely with a customs broker or freight forwarder to handle import documentation, customs clearance, and any required inspections or certifications. Labeling and product specifications must follow import regulations.
- Quality Control and Inspection: Check the split cassia for quality and specifications upon arrival. Check for defects and deviations from quality standards.
- Building a Long-term Relationship: Communicate with the supplier to resolve issues, provide feedback, and build a long-term partnership. This can improve import quality and reliability.
Import/export consultants or trade organizations can help you through the import process and overcome any obstacles.
If you want to find a reliable split cassia supplier, consider Hanoi Cinnamon Brand, the top leading Vietnamese cinnamon that have the mission to bring the highest quality for customer around the world.
