About Chef Glen L. Davis II Expertise I am familiar with a wide array of herbs/spices and techniques from around the world. I can answer questions about how to use spices/herbs, both classical and modern applications; I can also answer questions about substitution and application of herbs/spices.
Experience I Have worked as a chef for about 14 years and have written over 400 original recipes.
Organizations Virginia Chefs Association
Publications V.I.M.S. Sustainable Resources Symposium Cook Book 2004
The Free Lance Star
The Richmond Times Dispatch
Education/Credentials I attended J. Sergeant Reynolds CC where I majored in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management.
Awards and Honors Virginia Chefs Association "Jr Iron Chef"
Question I am very interested in Cinnamon. I have an addiction to cigarette smoking and I would really want to replace it with cinnamon, as it is one of my favorite spices. Recently, I heard about cinnamon sticks and that it could be in my mouth instead of a cancer stick. As you seem to know a lot about spices, my question is:
Are there commercial/non-commercial sticks I can buy without the harmful effects of coumarin and such?
Answer I have to admit this struck me as a rather unusual question!
I am not sure that you will like the cinnamon by itself, but I guess anything is better than tobacco use.
But I digress, in answer to your question, yes you can purchase whole cinnamon sticks. I usually buy them from B.J.'s or Sam's (you can probably find them at any bulk store). The reason I buy them at these stores is because it usually costs about 20-25% less than you would pay in an average grocery store. As far as the chemicals I have never heard of any problems involving them in cinnamon. If you have a concern with it i would find a brand such as McCormick and email them asking if their product contains it and what affects it might have on your health.
I hope this has helped you, please let me know if I can help with anything else. Good luck with quitting smoking its a long hard road but you can do it!
