If you're a tea connoisseur, someone who loves hot beverages after a run, or the adventurous type who likes to experiment with drinks, then you've likely heard of matcha green tea. This caffeine powerhouse is full of vitamins and antioxidants with a unique flavor profile and a long-lasting energy boost. Typically made from ground shade-grown tea leaves from Japan, this green tea provides the energy and focus of a cup of coffee, without the jitters or crashes. Matcha powders can be used to create authentic ceremonial teas or delicious matcha desserts. But all matcha powders are not created equal. To ensure that you get the best matcha powder that is fit for its purpose and delicious, we've rounded up our top picks for the best matcha powders so you can buy one that is exactly right for you.
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The Best Matcha Powder - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Matcha Powder: Ippodo Tea Sayaka
- Best Matcha Powder for Beginners: Aiya Matcha To Go
- Best Matcha Powder for Baking: FGO Matcha Green Tea Powder
- Best Matcha Powder for Lattes: Jade Leaf Matcha Latte Mix
- Best Organic Matcha Powder: Akira Matcha Konomi
- Best Japanese Matcha Powder: Matcha Moon
- Best Matcha Powder for Weight Loss: Golde Pure Matcha
- Best Affordable Matcha Powder: Kyoto Dew Matcha
- Best High-Grade Matcha Powder: Encha Organic Ceremonial
Best Overall - Ippodo Tea Sayaka
SPECS
- Grade: Ceremonial grade
- Origin: Kyoto, Japan
- Size: 0.7 oz. and 1.41 oz.
- Recommended uses: Regular matcha, thick matcha, lattes
Ippodo Tea is a family-run matcha tea company based in Kyoto, Japan, that has been in business for over three centuries, making it one of the most reputable sources for matcha. The Ippodo's Sayaka Matcha is sourced directly from Japan, with the entire manufacturing process—from cultivation to packaging—happening right in Japan. Thanks to Kyoto's mild and misty climate, mineral-rich soil, and ideal sunshine to rainfall ratio, it's renowned for producing the highest grade of green tea in Japan.
Ippodo's Sayaka is best in lattes, regular matcha, and thick matcha. Their teas are rich with a smooth, creamy consistency and an umami flavor. It's the ideal balance of richness for matcha fans while being palatable for beginners, which makes it an excellent purchase even if you're new to matcha. The Ippodo Sayaka matcha powder is our pick for the best overall matcha powder because of its superior quality and versatility for beginners and matcha aficionados alike. So if you want an authentic matcha experience, Ippodo is the way to go.
What We Like
- High-quality tea leaves are used to make the matcha powder
- No sugar added, which is ideal if you're trying to reduce your sugar intake
- The flavor is mild enough to be enjoyed by beginners
What We Don't Like
- It is not suitable for cooking or baking
- Not organic
BUY: Ippodo Tea
Best Matcha Powder for Beginners - Aiya Matcha To Go
SPECS
- Grade: Ceremonial grade
- Origin: Japan
- Size: 12g packets
- Recommended uses: Smoothies and lattes
Aiya Matcha To Go is a premium Japanese matcha tea that is vegan, gluten free, and Non-GMO certified. This matcha powder is made with pure cane sugar, Japanese matcha green tea, and fruit pectin and comes in convenient sachets so you can enjoy your matcha anytime.
Each box contains eight sachets that can easily make lattes or smoothies—simply add milk and you're ready to enjoy a healthy, jitter-free cup of matcha tea. We love the convenience of the sachets and how easy it is to make, which is why it is our choice for the best matcha powder for beginners. Whether you are at the gym, at work, or on the go, Aiya Matcha To Go is an excellent way to get your daily dose of matcha.
What We Like
- The powder is vegan, gluten free, and non-GMO
- It comes in convenient sachets for lattes on the go
- It is easy to mix and doesn't require any sifting or whisking
What We Don't Like
- It has added sugars and fruit pectins
- Each box only comes with 8 sachets
Best Matcha Powder for Baking - FGO Matcha Green Tea Powder
SPECS
- Grade: Culinary Grade
- Origin: Japan
- Size: 1 lb. 4 oz.
- Recommended uses: Lattes, smoothies, baking
If you're an avid baker or you love a good cup of matcha latte, then the FGO organic matcha green tea would make a wonderful addition to your pantry.
Made with premium tea leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant and stone ground into a fine powder, this matcha powder is ideal for teas, lattes, smoothies, and baking. FGO matcha powder is certified USDA organic and non-GMO, so you get a clean, high-quality matcha powder free from nasty chemicals and metals. The best part? It comes in resealable, foil-lined kraft bags to keep your matcha powder fresh and flavorful. The FGO matcha powder is a culinary grade matcha powder, which means it is ideal for cooking or baking.
What We Like
- This matcha powder is versatile and can be used for cooking, baking, and matcha beverages
- It is certified USDA organic and non-GMO
- It is packaged in a resealable bag to keep your matcha fresh
What We Don't Like
- The matcha is produced in a factory that produces milk, gluten, egg, soy, and tree nut products
- Not ideal for authentic ceremonial tea
BUY: FGO Matcha Green Tea Powder
Best Matcha Powder for Lattes - Jade Leaf Matcha Latte Mix
SPECS
- Grade: Cafe style mix
- Origin: Kagoshima and Uji, Japan
- Size: 1.1 lbs., 2.2 lbs, 5.3 lbs., or pack of 10, 30, or 100 sachets
- Recommended uses: Lattes, teas, frappes
If you want an organic, easy-to-make matcha powder with minimal ingredients, then the Jade Leaf Matcha Latte mix is ideal for you. This matcha powder mixes easily to create teas, iced teas, lattes, and even frappes. Made with only premium matcha leaves from Uji and Kagoshima in Japan and organic unrefined cane sugar, this matcha powder is a brilliant choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a lightly sweetened and healthier caffeinated beverage.
The powder is also USDA organic, dairy free, gluten free, non-GMO, and lab tested for integrity. Each serving contains about 20-30mg of caffeine, which makes it a healthy alternative to your coffee. We like that the Jade Organic matcha is also available in Collagen Sweetened, Collagen Unsweetened, and Sugar-free options in case you'd like matcha with added collagen or no sugar. The minimal ingredients, lightly sweetened flavor, and easy preparation make Jade Organic our pick for the best matcha powder for lattes.
What We Like
- This matcha powder is available with added collagen or no sugar
- It is easy to prepare
- The powder is organic, dairy free, gluten free, and non-GMO
What We Don't Like
- It is not suitable for cooking or baking
- It has a lower caffeine content than most matcha powders
BUY: Jade Leaf Matcha Latte Mix
Best Organic Matcha Powder - Akira Matcha Konomi
SPECS
- Grade: Ceremonial grade
- Origin: Uji, Japan
- Size: 1 oz., 3.5 oz.
- Recommended uses: Sipping, hot/cold tea, lattes
If you want the best organic matcha powder made with premium tea leaves, then the Akira matcha powder is an excellent choice. Made from the youngest tea leaves carefully selected by Japanese tea masters in Uji, Japan, this powder is 100 percent organic USDA certified and free from radiation, preservatives, sugars, fillers, and artificial ingredients.
The premium leaves are stone ground to create a rich, flavorful matcha powder for the best teas and lattes. The best part? Unlike other matcha powders, Akira matcha powders do not need to be sifted before whisking, making it a breeze to make your matcha beverages. Akira prides itself on strict controls and testing to create premium matcha powders that meet the USDA and JAS organic standards, which makes Akira matcha powder our pick for the best organic matcha powder.
What We Like
- Free from fillers, preservatives, sugar, radiation, and artificial ingredients
- It is USDA and JAS organic certified
- The powder doesn't clump like other matcha powders
What We Don't Like
- Not suitable for cooking or baking
- The larger serving size is packaged in plastic
BUY: Akira Matcha Konomi
Best All-Purpose Matcha Powder - Matcha Moon
SPECS
- Grade: All purpose
- Origin: Uji, Japan
- Size: 3.5 oz.
- Recommended uses: Lattes, cold brew, smoothies, baking
If you're looking for an all-natural, all-purpose matcha powder that delivers sustained, mood-boosting energy without the jitters or crash of coffee, look no further than Matcha Moon's USDA-certified organic matcha green tea powder. Acquired from a small family farm in Uji, Japan, this pure organic matcha powder is shade grown, handpicked, and stone-milled in small batches to ensure the freshest, most potent product possible. Unlike some other matcha powders on the market, Matcha Moon is naturally sugar free, gluten free, keto, paleo, and vegan-friendly, making it a superb choice for those on special diets.
This matcha powder sports an umami flavor with a bittersweet grassy taste and a bold aroma. We like that this matcha powder can be used for lattes, teas, iced teas, and baking. The Matcha Moon powder comes in triple-sealed tins for freshness and safety so you can bake your favorite matcha cookies to go with a delicious matcha latte. The umami flavor, high-quality tea leaves used to make the matcha, and versatility of this powder makes Matcha Moon our top pick for the best all-purpose matcha powder.
What We Like
- Each batch is made-to-order for freshness
- Sugar free, gluten free, keto, paleo, and vegan-friendly
- Packaged in triple sealed tins for extra freshness
What We Don't Like
- Only provides 3-4 hours of energy as opposed to the 4-6 hours other brands offer
- It is not ceremonial grade matcha which means you won't be able to make authentic ceremonial matcha tea
BUY: Matcha Moon
Best Matcha Powder for Weight Loss - Golde Pure Matcha
SPECS
- Grade: Ceremonial grade
- Origin: Uji, Japan
- Size: 1.4 oz.
- Recommended uses: Teas, lattes, smoothies
Golde Pure Matcha is a wonderful way to get your daily dose of green tea. Made from stone-ground Japanese green tea leaves, Golde Pure ceremonial grade matcha is rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and amino acids. One teaspoon of Golde Matcha has more caffeine than a shot of espresso, making it a fantastic pick-me-up for those mornings when you need an extra boost. And because Golde Pure Matcha is made with shade-grown green tea leaves from Uji, Japan, you're getting the highest quality matcha available.
We like that the powder is vegan and keto friendly and free from added sugars, artificial sweeteners, stevia, and monk fruit. With its high caffeine content, antioxidants, and rich flavor, the Golde Pure matcha is our pick for the best matcha powder for weight loss. So whether you're enjoying a latte, smoothie, or just a cup of regular matcha, Golde's Pure Matcha is a superb way to start your day.
What We Like
- Sugar-free and vegan and keto-friendly
- Packaged in a tin to keep your matcha fresher for longer
- More caffeine than an espresso shot
What We Don't Like
- Not suitable for baking or cooking
- Only has 15-20 servings per tin
BUY: Golde Pure Matcha
Best Affordable Matcha Powder - Kyoto Dew Matcha
SPECS
- Grade: Ceremonial grade
- Origin: Uji, Japan
- Size: 2.4 oz.
- Recommended uses: Teas, lattes
Need an affordable way to boost your energy and antioxidant intake? Then the Kyoto Dew Matcha is the best matcha powder for you. These premium-quality matcha tea leaves are grown in the shade in Uji, in Kyoto prefecture, Japan—known for producing some of the finest green tea in the world. The tea leaves are then handpicked, air dried, and stone ground to order, resulting in a powder that is fresh and packed with antioxidants and nutrients.
Just one cup of Kyoto Dew Matcha provides you with 137 times the antioxidants of a regular cup of green tea to help protect you against the damage of free radicals. Best of all, it provides an energy boost that lasts for 4-6 hours with no jitters or crashes—making it a great alternative to coffee or other caffeinated beverages. The matcha powder is also free from fillers and sugars and is USDA and JAS organic certified. If you're on a tight budget and need a better quality caffeine source, then the Kyoto Dew matcha powder is a fantastic option for you.
What We Like
- It provides an energy boost that lasts 4-6 hours
- The powder has 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea
- Sugar-free filler free and USDA and JAS organic certified
What We Don't Like
- Not suitable for cooking or baking
- The tin only has approximately 15 servings
BUY: Kyoto Dew Matcha
Best High-Grade Matcha Powder - Encha Organic Ceremonial
SPECS
- Grade: Ceremonial grade
- Origin: Uji, Japan
- Size: 1 lb., 1.06 oz., 2.12 oz.
- Recommended uses: Teas, lattes
If you want a high-quality matcha powder made from pure, organic first-harvest tea leaves, then the Encha Organic Ceremonial matcha powder is the way to go. This ceremonial grade matcha powder is made from the most tender matcha tea leaves from the first harvest to create a matcha powder with a smooth and delicate taste.
It has a complex flavor profile that is both sweet and earthy with a velvety texture and it is USDA certified. This means you are guaranteed to get a matcha powder free from heavy metals, chemicals, and pesticides. Plus, the rich antioxidant profile and high-caffeine content make this a delicious, healthy caffeine beverage to boost your energy and focus.
What We Like
- USDA-certified organic
- A smooth and delicate taste ideal for beginners and matcha fans
- Made from premium tea leaves
What We Don't Like
- Not suitable for cooking or baking
- Not packaged in a convenient tin for extra freshness
What is Matcha Tea?
Matcha green tea is a type of green tea that is made from tea leaves that are shade-grown for roughly three weeks before harvest, which increases the chlorophyll content and gives the powder its bright green color. When the leaves are ready, they are carefully handpicked and then ground into a fine powder using stone grinders. Matcha powder has a very distinctive flavor that is both grassy and sweet. It is often used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, as well as in other dishes such as matcha ice cream and matcha lattes.
Matcha Powder Benefits
Matcha powder is a rich source of antioxidants, which are beneficial compounds that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and lead to various diseases. The antioxidants in matcha powder may help to boost the immune system, lower cholesterol levels, and protect against some types of cancer. Matcha powder is also an excellent source of fiber, chlorophyll, and vitamins A and C.
What to Look for In Matcha Powder
Origin
The best matcha powder is made from leaves that are grown in Japan, specifically Uji, Kyoto, and Kagoshima.
Color
The best matcha powder is a vibrant green color. Avoid powders that are dull or have a muddy appearance, as these may be of lower quality.
Smell
Matcha powder should have a fresh, grassy smell. If it smells musty or stale, it has probably gone bad and should be avoided.
Ceremonial Grade vs. Culinary Grade
Ceremonial matcha powder is intended for teas, lattes, smoothies, and other beverages. Culinary matcha, in contrast, is better suited for baking or cooking. When purchasing your matcha, be sure to purchase the correct grade based on what you want to use it for.
FAQs About Matcha Powders
Are matcha lattes healthy?
The short answer is yes—matcha lattes can be part of a healthy diet. However, be mindful of the ingredients in the matcha powder and any added ingredients you use, and keep your intake in moderation.
How much caffeine is in matcha tea?
One of the key benefits of matcha is its high caffeine content. A cup of matcha tea can contain up to 70 milligrams of caffeine—that's more than a cup of coffee.
However, it's important to note that the caffeine in matcha differs from the caffeine in coffee. The caffeine in matcha is released more slowly, so it doesn't cause the same "jittery" feeling as coffee.
Can you drink matcha every day?
You can drink matcha every day. However, it's important to be mindful of your overall caffeine intake if you drink matcha every day. If you're sensitive to caffeine or you're trying to cut back on your intake, limit yourself to one to two cups of matcha per day.
Does matcha stain teeth?
Matcha can stain the plaque on your teeth, but if you regularly brush your teeth, you'll be able to avoid any staining.