Frequently Asked Questions
About Our Spices
What makes Ceylon spices different from other spices? Ceylon spices are sourced directly from Sri Lanka, the historic "Spice Island" known for producing the world's finest spices. Our Ceylon cinnamon, for example, is sweeter and more delicate than cassia cinnamon, with lower coumarin levels. All our spices are grown in Sri Lanka's unique climate and soil conditions, giving them superior flavor, aroma, and quality.
Are your spices organic? Many of our spices are grown using traditional, pesticide-free methods. We work directly with farmers who follow sustainable farming practices. While not all products are certified organic, we maintain strict quality standards and can provide detailed sourcing information for specific products upon request.
How fresh are your spices? We source our spices directly from Sri Lankan farms and spice gardens, ensuring maximum freshness. Most of our spices are processed and packaged within 30 days of harvest. We recommend using our spices within 2-3 years of purchase for optimal flavor, though they remain safe to consume beyond this period.
What's the difference between Ceylon cinnamon and regular cinnamon? Ceylon cinnamon (true cinnamon) is sweeter, more delicate, and has a complex flavor profile compared to cassia cinnamon found in most grocery stores. It has lower coumarin levels, making it safer for regular consumption. Ceylon cinnamon has a light brown color and crumbles easily, while cassia is darker and harder.
Ordering & Products
What sizes do your spices come in? We offer various sizes to suit different needs:
- Small jars (2-4 oz) - Perfect for trying new spices
- Medium containers (6-8 oz) - Great for regular cooking
- Large bulk sizes (1 lb+) - Ideal for frequent use or commercial kitchens
- Gift sets - Curated collections of popular Ceylon spices
Can I buy spices in bulk? Yes! We offer bulk quantities for restaurants, cafes, and serious home cooks. Contact us at [bulk@ceylonspices.com] for wholesale pricing and minimum order quantities.
Do you offer gift wrapping? Yes, we provide gift wrapping services for $5 per order. We also offer beautifully packaged gift sets that come ready to give. Perfect for food enthusiasts, cooks, and anyone who appreciates authentic flavors.
Can I track my order? Absolutely! Once your order ships, you'll receive a tracking number via email. You can also log into your account to view order status and tracking information.
Shipping & Delivery
How much does shipping cost? Our shipping rates are based on order weight:
- Light orders (0-8 oz): $5.99
- Medium orders (8-16 oz): $7.99
- Heavy orders (1-3 lbs): $9.99
- Free shipping on orders $75 and above!
How long does shipping take?
- Standard shipping: 5-7 business days
- Express shipping: 2-3 business days
- Overnight shipping: Next business day
Do you ship internationally? Yes! We ship worldwide. International shipping rates vary by destination:
- Canada: $15.99
- UK/Europe: $24.99
- Australia/Asia: $29.99
- Other countries: $34.99
How do you package spices for shipping? We use airtight, food-grade containers and protective packaging to ensure your spices arrive fresh and intact. For international shipments, we use moisture-resistant packaging to maintain quality during transit.
Quality & Storage
How should I store my spices? Store spices in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly sealed after each use. Avoid storing near heat sources like stoves or ovens. Properly stored spices maintain their potency for 2-3 years.
What if my spices arrive damaged? We guarantee that your spices will arrive in perfect condition. If any products are damaged during shipping, contact us within 48 hours with photos, and we'll send replacements at no charge.
How can I tell if my spices are still good? Fresh spices should have vibrant color and strong aroma. If spices appear faded, have little to no smell, or taste bland, they may be past their prime. While old spices aren't harmful, they won't provide the full flavor experience.
Are your spices tested for quality? Yes, all our spices undergo rigorous quality testing for purity, moisture content, and contamination. We work only with certified suppliers and maintain strict quality control standards throughout the sourcing and packaging process.
Usage & Cooking
How much spice should I use in recipes? Since our spices are more potent than typical grocery store varieties, start with about 75% of what recipes call for and adjust to taste. A little goes a long way with authentic Ceylon spices!
Can I get recipes for your spices? Yes! Visit our Recipes page for traditional Sri Lankan dishes and international recipes featuring our spices. We also send cooking tips and recipes in our monthly newsletter.
What's the best way to release spice flavors? For whole spices, lightly toast them in a dry pan for 30-60 seconds before grinding. For ground spices, add them to oil or butter at the beginning of cooking to bloom their flavors. Avoid overheating delicate spices like Ceylon cinnamon.
Returns & Exchanges
What's your return policy? We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If you're not happy with any product, contact us within 30 days of delivery for a full refund or exchange. Items must be unused and in original packaging.
What if I receive the wrong item? If you receive an incorrect item, contact us immediately at [support@ceylonspices.com]. We'll arrange for the correct item to be sent and provide a prepaid return label for the incorrect product.
Can I cancel my order? Orders can be canceled within 24 hours of placement, provided they haven't been processed for shipping. After this window, please contact us to see if cancellation is still possible.
Account & Support
Do I need an account to place an order? No, you can checkout as a guest. However, creating an account allows you to track orders, save addresses, view purchase history, and receive exclusive offers.
How do I contact customer support?
- Email: [support@ceylonspices.com]
- Live chat: Available Mon-Fri, 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Contact form: Available on our Contact page
Do you offer wholesale accounts? Yes! We offer special pricing for restaurants, cafes, and retailers. Contact us at [support@ceylonspices.com] to discuss wholesale opportunities and pricing.
How can I stay updated on new products? Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on new arrivals, seasonal specials, cooking tips, and exclusive offers. You can also follow us on social media for daily spice inspiration.
Still have questions? We're here to help! Contact us at [support@ceylonspices.com] or use our live chat feature. Our spice experts are happy to assist you in finding the perfect Ceylon spices for your culinary adventures.
