Cassia and star anise are among the world’s most popular spices, prized for their distinctive aroma and rich flavor. These versatile ingredients are widely used in both Eastern and Western cuisine, as well as in beverages to create unique and flavorful drinks. In 2024, Vietnam exported nearly 115 thousand tons of these spices, solidifying its reputation on the global agricultural market. Vietnamese varieties, known for their superior quality, have become essential in the Food & Beverage (F&B) industry, enhancing a wide range of drinks. From traditional Masala Chai in India to Western favorites like Mulled Wine and Apple Cider, they play a crucial role in crafting aromatic and well-balanced beverages.
The Unique Taste of Cassia and Star Anise
Cassia delivers a bold, sweet-spicy flavor with a slightly woody aroma, adding warmth and depth to drinks, making it a favorite for brewing and infusions. Meanwhile, star anise offers a licorice-like sweetness with a subtle peppery note. When combined, these two spices create a harmonious balance, enhancing the complexity of beverages with their distinctive yet complementary profiles.
How the F&B Industry Uses Cassia and Star Anise in Beverages
- Masala Chai – India’s Famous Spiced Tea
Indians commonly enjoy Masala Chai, a flavorful tea made by blending black tea leaves, milk, sugar, and an array of warming spices. Among them, cassia adds a deep cinnamon-like warmth, while star anise contributes a hint of sweetness and licorice flavor. Together, these elements create a rich and aromatic beverage cherished worldwide.
- Mulled Wine – A Winter Classic in Western Countries
During the winter season, people in Europe and North America enjoy Mulled Wine as a favorite festive drink. Red wine is infused with a blend of warming spices, including cinnamon-like notes from cassia and a hint of licorice sweetness from star anise, along with cloves, nutmeg, and citrus fruits. This combination transforms the beverage into a comforting and flavorful holiday treat.
- Apple Cider – A Refreshing and Warming Drink
Another popular winter beverage, apple cider, benefits from the addition of aromatic spices that enhance the natural sweetness of apples while adding layers of warmth and depth. Whether served hot or cold, this spiced drink is a refreshing and fragrant choice enjoyed across many cultures.
- Cocktails – A Twist of Flavor and Aroma
In mixology, these traditional spices are gaining popularity for their ability to elevate cocktails with depth and complexity. Many bartenders incorporate them into drinks like whiskey sours or gin & tonics, creating a memorable and exotic drinking experience with their unique aromatic profiles
Why Choose Vietnamese Cassia and Star Anise?
Vietnam is one of the leading exporters of high-quality cassia and star anise, known for their strong aroma and superior taste. Vihaba cassia are gathered from the most famous cassia growing regions in Vietnam, from Yen Bai with an area of nearly 80,000 hectares. While Star anise in Cao Bang, Lang Son and Bac Kan with an area of more than 50,000 ha. At VHB Group, we are proud to supply premium cassia and star anise to global markets. Our products meet international quality certifications, ensuring that they are suitable for the F&B industry worldwide.
Why Source from Us?
Vietnamese farmers and producers have built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality agricultural products, including premium cassia and star anise. As a trusted bulk supplier, we provide competitive pricing to meet the demands of international markets.
Enhance Your Beverages with the Finest Cassia and Star Anise
The demand for these aromatic spices in the beverage industry continues to rise steadily as businesses and consumers increasingly appreciate the depth of flavor they bring to drinks. Whether in tea, wine, cider, or cocktails, incorporating high-quality Vietnamese ingredients will undoubtedly set beverages apart.
Contact VHB Group via LinkedIn today for premium cassia and star anise sourced directly from Vietnam’s best suppliers. Let us help you bring authentic and flavorful experiences to your customers worldwide.