types of matcha

Matcha powders, matcha grades, green tea powders, teabags with matcha in them - things can get a little confusing when you’re in the market for some matcha. Here’s our guide on how to make sure you’re getting genuine,  quality matcha that’ll give you the best nutritional value.

teapigs 100% premium grade matcha powder

matcha falls very broadly into 3 categories

  • genuine, drinking quality matcha:

    genuine, drinking quality matcha:

     sometimes called premium or ceremonial or high grade, call it what you will, you’ll know you’ve got a good quality matcha if it’s its bright, bright green and tastes lovely – like ours!

  • lower quality or ingredient grade matcha: 

    lower quality or ingredient grade matcha: 

    it’s murky greeny yellow (so less chlorophyll) and will taste bitter (but a good shout if you’re going to make 100 cupcakes and don’t want to break the bank).

  • matcha that comes in a teabag:

    matcha that comes in a teabag:

    this isn’t really matcha, it’s usually green or white tea with a teeny tiny quantity of matcha (under 2%). Unless you actually eat the contents of the bag (yum), you won’t even access that 2%.

how to spot a good quality matcha?

As well as being bright, bright green and smooth to the touch – here’s a few other questions to keep in mind when shopping for your perfect matcha.

matcha FAQ

If you can answer “yes” to the questions above, you’re in for a total matcha treat! It’s also worth keeping an eye on the packaging your matcha comes in. The freshest matcha will be vacuum sealed from source (like ours), to ensure all those lovely nutrients are locked in. Glass jars and paper pouches might look pretty, but they don’t quite cut the mustard when it comes to keeping your matcha fresh.