Organic Japanese Matcha Green Tea

Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves. The tea plants are shade-grown for several weeks before harvest, and the stems and veins are removed before grinding. This process gives matcha its vibrant green color and unique flavor.

Matcha is primarily used as a flavor and colorant in food products. Its distinct taste and bright green hue make it popular in beverages like lattes, smoothies, and iced teas, as well as in baked goods, ice cream, and candies. It is also valued for its antioxidant properties.

Matcha is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It is a source of antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, which have been studied for potential health benefits. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated tea and its components, but specific numeric limits for matcha as a food ingredient are not typically set. Research into the health effects of matcha is ongoing, with some studies suggesting benefits related to heart health and brain function, while others indicate potential concerns with very high intake, such as liver effects.