We tried thinking of a better title, but the clickbait nature of this one will work for now – especially since it isn’t entirely false. This exposé on cinnamon is also one of the most vehement stances Chef Pascal Dionot has taken as a chef (and rightfully so).

We’ve all encountered cinnamon in food in one form or another. Be it sweet (ex: cinnamon rolls) or savory (ex: butternut squash soup, spicy curry), it’s been a worldly staple for centuries. However, what you should be cause for concern is if you’re actually eating this specific spice.

The key factor is differentiating cinnamon from cassia. Cinnamon is a spice made from the bark of species of the cinnamon tree. It can be purchased in its grounded form or in the form of curled sticks or quills. Cassia is from the bark of the Cinnamomum cassia tree. Cassia has similar properties to cinnamon and can be identified by notable differences.

Cassia has a harder bark with a darker color and stronger aroma. Cinnamon is more fragile with a lighter color and more subtle scent.

The reason why Cassia should be avoided is because it contains trace amounts of coumarin – most often up to 1% per serving. Coumarin is a chemical compound whose properties are known to cause damage on the liver, kidneys, and lungs. In large amounts, coumarin can also create cancerous tumors on those organs.

Coumarin is also found in many perfumes, aromatizers, and other scented products. Despite being banned in many first-world countries as a food additive, coumarin is still used in America – namely in vanilla products.

So how do you determine whether it’s one or the other? If you live in America, that’s a difficult process. In the United States, most cinnamon and cassia products are labeled solely as “cinnamon.” OSHA also does not classify coumarin as a carcinogen for humans.

Keep all of this in mind before diving into your next dish that might be chock-full of cassia instead of the go-to spice. If you’re looking for a safe substitute, consider cardamom (at least for savory dishes). You deserve a better meal and – more importantly – you deserve a healthier life.