Cinnamon is one of the most popular spices in the world. From sprinkling them on your coffee, tea, and baked goods to meats and curries, cinnamon is a staple in many cuisines across the world. But what if we tell you that most of the cinnamon you see in stores is not real? Yes, that’s right. The market is flooded with fake or inferior varieties, and chances are, you’ve probably bought them without even knowing it. These fake cinnamon products can pose serious health risks, including liver damage due to high levels of a compound called coumarin.

Here are some simple steps to identify real cinnamon from the fake ones.