Analysis of the association between the stem bark characteristics and Peelability of Cinnamon

Abstract

Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume) is globally recognized for its unique properties and health benefits. Despite its high demand, the process of peeling cinnamon bark is known to be time and labor-intensive. Peelability is influenced by various factors, including climatic conditions, stem maturity, and anatomy. This study aimed to explore the relationship between peelability and stem anatomy in the Siri Gemunu variety of Ceylon cinnamon. Two treatments are employed: T1 involves peelable cinnamon stems harvested during wet weather with light green leaves, while T2 comprises non-peelable cinnamon stems bearing flowers or fruits. Each treatment is replicated 50 times for comprehensive analysis. Cross-sectional slides of the stems were prepared, and anatomical measurements were conducted using Image J software. Key measurements included cambium layer thickness, outer bark thickness, inner bark thickness, stone cell layer thickness, and mucilage cell count per unit area. The mucilage content of the bark was also determined. Calculate means and standard deviations for each anatomical measurement and mucilage content within each treatment group. Perform ANOVA to compare means across the two treatments for each anatomical parameter and mucilage content separately. Conduct Tukey's HSD to identify specific differences between treatments. Regression analysis was used to model the relationship between environmental conditions (seasons) and anatomical features or mucilage content. Contrary to expectations, there was no consistent relationship found between peelability and anatomical measurements. However, a noteworthy observation emerged concerning bark mucilage content. Cinnamon sticks sampled during wet weather and from plants bearing light green leaves exhibited higher mucilage content compared to non-peelable sticks (bearing flowers or fruits) (P<0.05). This suggests a positive association between bark mucilage and peelability of Ceylon cinnamon. In conclusion, the study indicates that bark mucilage content may play a significant role in the peelability of cinnamon. While the anatomical measurements did not show a consistent correlation, further exploration of the relationship between mucilage content and peelability is warranted. Understanding these factors could contribute to improving the efficiency of cinnamon processing methods.