Cinnamon Fraud: Two-Thirds of EU Cinnamon Has Quality or Safety Problems 2026

Cinnamon fraud is widespread in the European Union, with more than two-thirds of cinnamon samples analyzed failing to meet quality or safety standards. A 2025 study by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre found that over 66% of cinnamon sold in the EU has problems, including fraud, high lead levels, and excessive coumarin.

What the EU Study Found

In September 2025, the Joint Research Centre analyzed over 100 cinnamon samples from ten EU countries. The results were alarming: more than 66% of samples had issues. Some violated international quality standards, others exceeded EU food safety limits for lead or coumarin, and up to 9% of samples labeled as Ceylon cinnamon were actually Cassia cinnamon—a cheaper, lower-quality substitute.

This follows a 2022 European Commission study that revealed fraud was common in popular spices like pepper, cumin, turmeric, saffron, and paprika. The Commission urged member states to strengthen controls, but the cinnamon problem shows that fraud persists.

Why Cinnamon Fraud Matters for Your Health

Cinnamon is a staple in many kitchens, but not all cinnamon is created equal. Ceylon cinnamon, often called "true cinnamon," is prized for its delicate flavor and low coumarin content. Cassia cinnamon, on the other hand, is cheaper and more pungent but contains higher levels of coumarin—a natural compound that can be toxic to the liver in large amounts.

The study found that some cinnamon samples exceeded legal limits for coumarin, posing a risk to heavy consumers, especially children and people with liver conditions. Additionally, elevated lead levels were detected in some samples, which is particularly concerning because lead can accumulate in the body and cause serious health problems.

What Is Coumarin and Why Should You Care?

Coumarin is a naturally occurring substance found in several plants, including Cassia cinnamon. While small amounts are generally safe, high intake can damage the liver. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set a tolerable daily intake (TDI) for coumarin, but regular consumption of Cassia cinnamon can easily exceed this limit.

For example, a teaspoon of Cassia cinnamon contains enough coumarin to exceed the TDI for an adult. This is why the EU has strict limits on coumarin in foods, but the study shows that some products still surpass these limits. Context on how this played out before sits in Cinnamon Fraud: Two-Thirds of EU Cinnamon Has Quality or Safety Problems.

How to Protect Yourself from Cinnamon Fraud

As a consumer, you can take steps to ensure you're buying safe, authentic cinnamon. Here are key takeaways: The background to this story is set out in Perfect Sri Lankan Chicken Curry Recipe with Rich Spices. A related thread runs through Health: latest articles.

• Choose Ceylon cinnamon when possible—it has lower coumarin levels and a milder flavor.
• Check the label for the scientific name: Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon) vs. Cinnamomum cassia.
• Buy from reputable brands that test for contaminants and authenticity.
• Limit intake of Cassia cinnamon, especially for children and pregnant women.
• Stay informed about food safety alerts and recalls in your country.

Comparison of Ceylon vs. Cassia Cinnamon

What Authorities Are Doing

The European Commission has acknowledged the problem and is working with member states to improve controls. However, enforcement varies across countries, and fraudsters often exploit gaps in the supply chain. The study's findings underscore the need for stronger surveillance and penalties for food fraud. Earlier coverage in Why Cooling Food on the Counter Is a Bad Idea, Experts Say shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Raw Milk Like Haaland Drinks: Safe or Risky.

In the meantime, consumers should remain vigilant. The cinnamon in your pantry might not be what it claims to be, and the health risks—though not immediate for most—are real. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Potatoes in the Fridge: New Study Says Cold Storage Keeps Them Fresh. The same theme surfaces in Vacation Rental Scams: How to Spot Fake Listings and Avoid Fraud, which takes a different angle.

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