What is matcha?

“Matcha is ground-up green tea leaves,” explains Dr Federica Amati, head of nutrition at ZOE. “Farmers grow the plants in the shade, which gives the powder its distinct bitter taste and bright green colour.”

“Because growing in shady conditions is stressful for the plant, it produces higher levels of protective plant compounds (phytonutrients or phytochemicals), some of which may support health,” she adds.

Traditionally, matcha is whisked – using a matcha bowl and bamboo whisk – with hot water to a frothy consistency for sipping, but increasingly it’s being stirred into lattes, smoothies, pancakes and desserts (matcha panna cotta and sesame brittle, anyone?)

It’s worth noting that matcha does contain caffeine, although it offers a slightly gentler hit than coffee. A standard 227ml cup of coffee contains anywhere from 80-100mg of caffeine, whereas the average cup of matcha provides around 70mg of caffeine.

What are the benefits of matcha?

According to Dr Amati, scientific studies show that matcha may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties thanks to the high level of bioactive compounds. These include catechins, caffeine, chlorophyll and L-theanine.

It can also provide a smoother caffeine experience than coffee and could even help improve cognitive function. This is because the combination of caffeine and L-theanine can help improve mental focus and alertness, without a dreaded energy crash. L-theanine has also been shown to help reduce feeling of stress and anxiety and aid relaxation.

Dr Amati points out, however, that much of the evidence comes from laboratory studies, so we can’t say for sure if the compounds in matcha have the same health-boosting effects when consumed. More research is needed before we can make any conclusions.

How to know which matcha powder to buy

There are a few things to think about when it comes to choosing the best matcha green tea powder.

“The colour should be bright green. If it’s duller or more yellow, it’s likely to be of poor quality.” explains Dr Amati. “You should also check the ingredients list; some products use matcha as a health halo, but some can be high in sugar and additives like emulsifiers.”

It’s also worth considering the grade – is it ceremonial, premium or culinary? Ceremonial grade matcha, which is made from younger tea leaves, is generally considered to be higher quality and can be enjoyed with hot water alone.

Culinary grade matcha, on the other hand, is made from lower grade tea leaves and is best for lattes, shakes and baking. It tends to be more affordable than the ceremonial grade variety.

Then there’s premium grade matcha, which sits between the two and can be used for drinking and baking.

How we test

Our Good Housekeeping Institute panel – made up of expert food testers and avid matcha drinkers – put 10 powders from leading brands through their paces, judging them on consistency, flavour and colour (the bolder, the better).

Each powder was prepared using the recommended amount of matcha and packet instructions were followed precisely.

Once testing was complete, we collated all the feedback and awarded final scores. Whether you’re a dedicated matcha fan or a total newbie, these are our favourite matchas on the market.

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