Correct option is D
Cassia bark is commonly used as an adulterant for
cinnamon. Cassia and cinnamon come from different species of trees, but their barks look similar and have a comparable flavor. Cassia is cheaper and is often used to adulterate true cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) in the market. While cassia has a stronger, more pungent flavor, it is often passed off as cinnamon due to the visual similarities.
Information Booster: Cassia bark comes from the species Cinnamomum cassia, while true cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) is native to Sri Lanka. Cassia bark is thicker, harder, and has a more intense flavor compared to cinnamon. When cassia is used as an adulterant for cinnamon, it is often because it is more readily available and less expensive. However, cassia contains higher levels of coumarin, a compound that can be harmful in large quantities.
Additional Knowledge:
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Coffee: Cassia is not used as an adulterant in coffee, though various other substances can be used to extend coffee supplies, such as chicory.
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Tea: Cassia is not commonly used in tea adulteration; however, other leaves like tea leaves from different plants might be mixed with true tea leaves.
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Bay leaf: Bay leaf and cassia have no direct connection in terms of adulteration. Bay leaf comes from the laurel tree, and cassia is used in different culinary contexts.