1. What is Thanh Cinnamon? Distinguish the right type from other cinnamon product lines
1.1. Concept of Thanh Cinnamon and origin
Thanh Cinnamon is the whole bark of the cinnamon tree after being peeled and completely dried, characterized by a warm aroma and a mild sweet and spicy taste that is easy to recognize. This product is among Vietnam's outstanding specialty products, widely used in many countries around the world.
The biggest difference between Thanh Cinnamon and other types of cinnamon lies in shape and quality. Cinnamon powder is finely ground with a dark brown color, often used for mixing drinks or quick seasoning. Stick cinnamon has a natural rolled bark shape or is hand-rolled, while broken cinnamon consists of small pieces, mainly used for extracting essential oil or as an ingredient for more common products.
The lands famous for quality Thanh Cinnamon include Tra Bong in Quang Ngai, Yen Bai, and especially Thanh Hoa. The three districts of Lang Chanh, Thuong Xuan, and Quan Hoa in Thanh Hoa province are widely known as the cradle of Thanh Cinnamon in Vietnam, preserving the characteristic cinnamon variety through many generations.
1.2. Characteristics of Thanh Cinnamon
The exterior of Thanh Cinnamon is easily impressive with its long, straight, or slightly rolled whole bark pieces. This is a prominent distinguishing feature compared to many other types of cinnamon.
The color of cinnamon sticks is usually dark yellow, light brown, or reddish-brown, with a smooth surface. (Source: Collected)
The color of genuine cinnamon sticks is usually dark yellow, light brown, or reddish-brown, with a smooth surface, no signs of mold or impurities. Inside there is a layer of light-colored powder, creating a natural appeal.
The bark of cinnamon sticks has moderate thickness, is firm to the touch, and does not crumble when separated. The older the cinnamon tree, the thicker the essential oil layer, emitting a strong aroma with a sweet, lingering aftertaste. Compared to broken cinnamon, dark-colored hybrid cinnamon, with a mild flavor, cinnamon sticks are always highly rated for quality.
2. Uses of cinnamon sticks in cuisine and health
2.1. Cinnamon sticks are a "golden" spice in traditional Vietnamese cuisine
In the treasure trove of Vietnamese cuisine, cinnamon sticks have become a familiar spice, helping to create the unique flavor of Hanoi pho, Hue beef noodle soup, braised meat, or braised fish in clay pot. Thanks to its natural essential oil content, cinnamon sticks contribute to the unforgettable fragrant flavor of the dishes.
Cinnamon sticks contribute to the unforgettable aromatic flavor of dishes. (Source: Collected)
To maximize the benefits of cinnamon sticks, subtlety in their use is key. When adding cinnamon sticks to broth, essential oils diffuse evenly, resulting in a clear broth with a characteristic aroma that is not overpowering. This method is crucial for dishes like pho or traditional braised dishes, offering a complete taste experience.
Additionally, cinnamon sticks are used in hot pots, and meat and fish braises, helping to eliminate odors, create a warm flavor, and stimulate appetite. Experienced cooks often utilize cinnamon sticks to enhance the appeal of dishes, leaving a lasting impression on diners from the very first taste.
2.2. Cinnamon sticks and health: A precious medicinal ingredient in modern Eastern medicine
Vietnamese traditional medicine considers cinnamon sticks a precious medicinal ingredient that helps support blood circulation, enhance cardiovascular function, warm the body, and improve digestive efficiency. Modern research has shown that the essential oils in cinnamon sticks have effective antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. Furthermore, cinnamon sticks help regulate blood sugar, lower bad cholesterol, improve blood circulation, and reduce abdominal pain caused by digestive disorders.
When using cinnamon sticks as a medicinal ingredient, it is important to adhere to dosages as advised by experts. Overuse should be avoided due to its strong warming properties, and it should also be avoided by pregnant women, individuals with blood clotting disorders, or severe liver disease. Consulting a doctor is always recommended before using it for medicinal purposes.
2.3. Other benefits of cinnamon sticks: Beauty, boosting immunity, and hangover relief
In the field of natural beauty care, cinnamon powder and cinnamon essential oil are used as ingredients for natural masks that cleanse the skin, help reduce inflammation, and treat mild acne. Patch testing for allergies before direct application to the skin is always necessary.
To boost immunity, a cup of cinnamon stick tea mixed with honey is a beneficial choice, contributing to the prevention of mild colds during changing weather. The combination of cinnamon essential oil and honey not only protects health but also offers a pleasant flavor for the consumer.
Traditional medicine also emphasizes the role of cinnamon sticks in stimulating blood circulation, contributing to alcohol detoxification and reducing stroke risks if used appropriately. Therefore, cinnamon sticks are chosen by many as a natural solution to enhance overall health.
3. Tips for Buying and Storing Cinnamon Sticks - Best Practices for 2025
3.1. How to Choose Delicious Cinnamon Sticks Rich in Essential Oils
Choosing quality cinnamon sticks requires keen observation of their appearance. Standard cinnamon sticks are usually uniformly thick, dry, have a natural bright brown color, and emit a characteristic mild spicy aroma as soon as the package is opened.
When inspecting, pay attention to the firmness and the surface of the slices; real cinnamon sticks will be difficult to break into pieces, show no signs of being porous, and will not have mold or strange odors. The easiest identifying sign is when breaking them, you will see a shiny layer of essential oil, a long-lasting aroma, and a taste that is mildly sweet and spicy, not harsh.
To ensure you buy the right type of cinnamon stick, it is advisable to look for reputable brands or purchase through e-commerce channels with clear warranty policies. Locations in Lang Chanh, Muong Lat, along with businesses that have origin certificates and food safety standards, are top recommendations for consumers.
3.2. International Quality Standards for Export Cinnamon Sticks
Exported cinnamon sticks must meet strict criteria to ensure quality. (Source: Collected)
Cinnamon sticks for export must meet strict criteria to ensure quality for buyers worldwide. The maximum moisture content is only 14%, with no chemical residues and completely free from mold.
The production process for exported cinnamon sticks must adhere to cultivation procedures and quality management according to international certifications to enter major markets such as the US, Europe, and the Middle East.
Each batch of exported cinnamon sticks comes with a phytosanitary certificate, essential oil analysis, and microbial and heavy metal testing. Information about origin, production date, and expiry date is clearly printed on the label, assuring consumers about Vietnamese products.
3.3. Proper home storage of cinnamon sticks
Proper storage will keep cinnamon sticks fresh in flavor and maximize their benefits. Cinnamon sticks should be tightly sealed in specialized containers or vacuum-sealed bags, placed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid exposing cinnamon sticks to humid air to prevent mold or loss of essential oils. Regular checks should be performed to detect any abnormalities early.
Divide cinnamon sticks into small portions, storing them in airtight glass jars or vacuum bags. With this method, cinnamon sticks maintain optimal quality for 12 to 18 months, preserving both flavor and medicinal properties.
4. Cinnamon sticks in culture and export: Vietnamese value reaching the world 2025
4.1. Cinnamon sticks - A characteristic feature in Vietnamese culture and customs
For Vietnamese people, cinnamon sticks are not just a spice but also hold traditional cultural significance. Cinnamon sticks symbolize luck and prosperity, often present in rituals and important occasions of each family.
Que thanh carries traditional cultural meanings. (Source: Collection)
During the Tet Nguyen Dan, que thanh is also displayed with the meaning of bringing good fortune, used as offerings to ancestors. When burned in ceremonies, the aroma of que thanh contributes to creating a sacred space, dispelling evil spirits, and bringing peace to the home.
In cinnamon-growing regions like Thanh Hoa, Quang Ngai, gifting que thanh is a beautiful custom during gatherings or major festivals. It is a wish for health, luck, and peace within the community for generations.
4.2. The Development Journey of Viet Nam's Que Thanh Export 2025
Viet Nam has affirmed its position among the top 3 cinnamon exporting countries in the world, with que thanh as the main product targeting many famous markets. Partners such as Hoa Ky, An Do, Han Quoc, A Rap Xe Ut, EU, Trung Quoc play an important bridging role in helping que thanh reach far.
Recent years have marked many outstanding achievements as the que thanh export industry has established many large contracts worth tens of millions of USD. Brands like Tra Bong, Thanh Hoa have built strong cooperation agreements, affirming the reputation and quality of Viet specialties in the international market.
This success not only has economic significance but also contributes to building the national image. Que thanh is increasingly becoming a representative product for Viet Nam's spice export sector, opening up sustainable development directions for Viet agricultural products in the international market.
Que thanh not only carries strong culinary artistic value but is also a natural medicinal ingredient that helps protect health, and at the same time, it is an export product symbolizing the cultural and economic value of Viet Nam. If you have the opportunity to visit Sam Son to buy authentic que thanh, take time to explore more attractive destinations of Sun World Sam Son to make your trip more complete. Choose que thanh from reputable suppliers, share your real experiences to together preserve and spread the value of Viet que specialties.
