“Ceylon cinnamon”: Much more than just a spice – By Dr Harold Gunatillake ‘Cinnamon, with its ability to enhance the flavour of meals, serve as a delightful substitute for sugar or salt, and inspire healthier choices, is a spice that truly does it all’. Today, we’re shifting our focus from health topics to exploring a fascinating spice that originates from the bark of a tree unique to Sri Lanka. This transition allows us to appreciate this ingredient’s culinary and cultural significance. Cinnamomum zeylanicum, widely recognised as Ceylon cinnamon or true cinnamon, is a species native to Sri Lanka and has been cultivated for centuries. This spice not only enriches our meals but also plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, generating considerable foreign revenue and supporting the livelihoods of over 350,000 families engaged in various aspects of the cinnamon industry. Its deep- rooted significance in Sri Lankan culture and ...
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Sri Lankan cinnamon – By eLanka Sri Lankan cinnamon, known as Ceylon cinnamon, has a rich and storied history that dates back thousands of years. Here are some key points in the history of Sri Lankan cinnamon: Ancient and Medieval Periods Ancient Trade: Ceylon cinnamon has been a prized commodity since antiquity. It was known to traders from Egypt, China, and Arabia. The ancient Egyptians used cinnamon in their embalming process and as a flavoring in food and drink. It was also highly valued in Roman and Greek cultures. Arab Traders: For centuries, Arab traders controlled the cinnamon trade, keeping the true source of cinnamon a closely guarded secret from European markets. They transported it via long overland routes to the Mediterranean, where it was distributed throughout Europe. Colonial Era Portuguese Era (1505-1658): The Portuguese arrived in Sri Lanka in the early 16th century. They quickly recognized the value of ...
Quick Chat with Celebrity Chef Gary Mehigan – By Melanie Senanayake Former MasterChef Australia Judge talks about the Culinary Extravaganza awaiting in Sri Lanka! Colombo, 21st November 2023: The renowned Celebrity Chef and former judge of MasterChef Australia, Gary Mehigan, engaged in a brief online discussion ahead of his highly anticipated trip to Sri Lanka at the end of the month. The culinary maestro is set to captivate Sri Lanka during a three-day culinary extravaganza, in partnership with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts. From November 30 to December 2, 2023, individuals with a refined taste for food will have the exclusive chance to savor Mehigan’s culinary artistry at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo and personally connect with him. During his visit, patrons will have the privilege of experiencing two thoughtfully crafted full-course dinners personally orchestrated by Mehigan himself. This promises to be an unparalleled gastronomic experience as he shares his expertise and ...
Why the Sri Lankan spices are called some of the best in the world? – By Ceylon Especias Agro (Pvt) Ltd Source : Ceylon Especias Agro (Pvt) Ltd linkedin Sri Lankan spices are highly regarded and often considered some of the best in the world for several reasons: 1. Climate and Soil: Sri Lanka’s tropical climate, with its abundant rainfall and moderate temperatures, provides ideal conditions for growing a wide variety of spices. The country’s rich and fertile soil, coupled with its geographic location, contributes to the development of flavors and aromas that are unique to Sri Lankan spices. 2. Biodiversity: Sri Lanka is known for its remarkable biodiversity, and this extends to its spice production. The country cultivates a diverse range of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper, among others. The diverse plant species and ecosystems contribute to the complexity and richness of Sri Lankan spices. 3. Traditional ...
Ceylon Cinnamon History – By Nadeeka – eLanka Cinnamon has been an important part of Sri Lanka’s history and economy for centuries. Sri Lanka, which was known as Ceylon until 1972, is one of the largest producers and exporters of cinnamon in the world. Cinnamon was originally grown in Sri Lanka’s central hills, and it quickly became a valuable commodity. The ancient Egyptians used cinnamon for embalming, and it was also used in ancient Rome as a perfume and medicine. In Sri Lanka, cinnamon was used as a spice and for medicinal purposes. The first Europeans to arrive in Sri Lanka were the Portuguese in the early 16th century. They quickly realized the value of cinnamon and took control of the cinnamon trade. They forced the Sri Lankan people to hand over their cinnamon supplies and imposed high taxes on cinnamon exports. The Dutch later took control of Sri Lanka ...
Ceylon Cinnamon clinches country’s first GI status Source:ft.lk Major breakthrough for one of Sri Lanka’s iconic spices obtaining European Union Commission awards Geographical Indication (GI) certification Decade-long effort by multiple stakeholders comes to fruition offering Sri Lanka opportunity to differentiate and be competitive against substitutes of lower quality in EU Achievement a major boost for over 30,000 stakeholders involved in cinnamon industry Marking a milestone, Ceylon Cinnamon on Wednesday had received the country’s first-ever Geographical Indication (GI) certification and status from the European Union (EU) Commission. The outcome was a result of a painstaking, decade-long, arduous endeavour led by the Sri Lanka Export Development (EDB) under the Ministry of Trade with the support of numerous public and private stakeholders. The Daily FT on 28 January first reported the impending milestone via a Guest Column by spice industry champion Sarada de Silva (ft.lk/columns/Ceylon-Cinnamon-on-verge-of-obtaining-geographical-indications-a-first-for-Sri-Lanka/4-729756). The Export Development Board (EDB) said yesterday GI ...
Ceylon Cinnamon- Born in Sri Lanka – Webinar on 07 December 2021 You Are Cordially Invited To Join The Webinar On ” True Cinnamon – Born in Sri Lanka “ On 7th December , 2021 From 3.30 PM To 4.50PM Meeting ID : 810 13761871 Passcode : 933112 organized by the Consulate General Of Sri Lanka in Melbourne in Collaboration with the Export Development Board (EDB),Sri Lanka Sri Lanka & Australia Chamber of Commerce ...
