Have you ever tried the matcha green tea latte from Starbucks? It’s one of their signature drinks and is loved by many. But have you ever wondered what brand of matcha Starbucks uses to achieve that perfect taste? Well, you’re not alone. Thousands of people have been searching for the answer to this question, and I’m here to give you the answer.
Starbucks’ matcha green tea latte is made with high-quality matcha powder that creates the perfect balance of earthy and sweet flavors. The brand of matcha that Starbucks uses is called Teavana. This high-grade matcha is sourced from Japan, where the renowned tea gardens and skilled tea masters ensure that only the finest tea leaves are selected for processing.
Teavana matcha is known for its vibrant green color, rich flavor, and numerous health benefits. It’s packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers. But what sets Teavana apart is their commitment to sourcing tea from sustainable and ethical sources. So now you can enjoy your matcha green tea latte from Starbucks guilt-free, knowing that the matcha they use is good for both you and the environment.
Starbucks Matcha Powder
If you’re an avid Starbucks customer, you might have tried their Matcha Green Tea Latte. But have you ever wondered what kind of matcha powder Starbucks uses?
Starbucks sources its matcha powder from two reputable tea companies based in Japan: Marukyu-Koyamaen and Shizuoka-Kita.
Marukyu-Koyamaen is located in the Uji region in Kyoto, known for producing the highest quality matcha powder in Japan. Starbucks uses their Ceremonial Grade matcha powder for its beverages.
Meanwhile, Shizuoka-Kita is located in the Shizuoka Prefecture, known for producing a more affordable yet still high-quality matcha powder. Starbucks uses their Premium Grade matcha powder for its menu items that require a larger amount of matcha powder.
Benefits of Drinking Matcha Tea
Matcha is a type of green tea that has been traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies for centuries. Unlike other types of tea, matcha involves grinding the whole leaf into a fine powder, which is then whisked with hot water to make a smooth, frothy beverage that is high in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. Here are some of the health benefits of drinking matcha tea:
- Boosts Energy and Focus: Matcha contains a unique combination of caffeine and L-Theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and concentration. This makes it a great alternative to coffee for those who need a pick-me-up without the jitters or crash.
- Supports Immune System: Matcha is loaded with powerful antioxidants called catechins, which help to protect the body against harmful free radicals and boost the immune system.
- Improves Heart Health: Studies have shown that regular consumption of green tea, including matcha, can lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Why Starbucks Uses Teavana Matcha
Starbucks is one of the biggest coffee and tea chains in the world, and they have been serving matcha lattes since 2015. The company uses Teavana matcha, which is a high-quality blend sourced from Japan and China. Teavana matcha is made from shade-grown tea leaves that are handpicked and steamed to preserve the delicate flavor and vibrant green color.
Starbucks chose Teavana matcha because of its superior taste and quality, as well as its sustainability practices. The company sources its matcha from farms that use organic and eco-friendly methods, and they work closely with their suppliers to ensure ethical and fair labor practices.
| Benefits of Teavana Matcha | Why Starbucks Uses Teavana Matcha |
|---|---|
| -Rich flavor -Vibrant green color -High in antioxidants -Sustainable sourcing -Organic farming methods |
-Superior taste and quality -Ethical and fair labor practices -Commitment to sustainability -Strong partnership with suppliers -Delicious addition to Starbucks menu |
Overall, matcha is a delicious and healthful beverage that has a lot of benefits for the body and mind. If you are looking for a natural energy boost, immune support, or heart health benefits, give matcha a try and see what it can do for you!
Different Grades of Matcha Powder
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from shade-grown green tea leaves. It has become popular in the Western world due to its numerous health benefits, versatility, and unique flavor. There are different grades of matcha powder, which vary in quality, taste, color, and price.
- Ceremonial Grade Matcha: This is the highest quality matcha powder, made from the youngest tea leaves that are handpicked and stemmed. The leaves are then de-veined, de-stemmed, and stone-ground to produce a delicate, vivid green powder. Ceremonial grade matcha has a sweet, rich, and complex flavor profile and is ideal for use in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. It is also a premium ingredient in high-end beverages, desserts, and pastries. Ceremonial grade matcha is the most expensive type of matcha powder, usually selling for $20-$30 per ounce.
- Premium Grade Matcha: This is a middle-tier grade of matcha powder, made from slightly older tea leaves that are harvested later in the season. Premium grade matcha has a milder taste and color than ceremonial grade matcha but is still high in quality and suitable for daily consumption. It is a popular choice for smoothies, lattes, and baked goods. Premium grade matcha usually sells for $10-$15 per ounce.
- Culinary Grade Matcha: This is the lowest grade of matcha powder and is made from the oldest tea leaves that are harvested latest in the season. Culinary grade matcha has a bitter taste, dull color, and robust texture, which make it suitable for cooking and baking rather than drinking. It is an affordable option for adding matcha flavor to a variety of dishes, such as soups, sauces, noodles, and ice cream. Culinary grade matcha typically sells for $5-$10 per ounce.
The Factors that Affect Matcha Powder Grades
Matcha grades are determined by several factors, such as the quality of the tea leaves, the processing methods, and the color, taste, and texture of the resulting powder. The following are some of the critical factors that affect matcha powder grades:
- Location: Matcha grown in Japan is considered the best in the world due to the ideal growing conditions, such as fertile soil, ample rainfall, and temperate climate. Some of the famous regions for matcha production in Japan include Uji, Shizuoka, and Kagoshima.
- Harvesting: The younger and fresher the tea leaves, the higher the quality of the matcha powder. The matcha leaves for the ceremonial and premium grades are usually handpicked, whereas the culinary grade leaves may be machine-harvested.
- Shade-Growing: Matcha leaves that are grown under shade for the last few weeks before harvesting have more chlorophyll, amino acids, and antioxidants, which gives the matcha its vibrant green color, umami flavor, and health benefits.
- Processing: The method of processing the matcha leaves after harvesting also affects the final quality of the powder. The stems, veins, and impurities are removed, and the leaves are dried and ground into a fine powder using a traditional stone mill.
Starbucks Matcha Powder
Starbucks uses a premium matcha powder for its matcha drinks, which is sourced from a tea company in Japan. The matcha powder is a blend of both ceremonial and premium grades, which gives the drinks a smooth, rich, and slightly sweet flavor. Starbucks also adds a sweetened condensed milk to its matcha latte recipe, which enhances the creaminess and sweetness of the drink.
| Matcha Powder Type | Price per Ounce |
|---|---|
| Ceremonial Grade Matcha | $20-$30 |
| Premium Grade Matcha | $10-$15 |
| Culinary Grade Matcha | $5-$10 |
Overall, understanding the different grades of matcha powder can help you choose the right type for your needs and budget. While ceremonial grade matcha is the most prized, it may not be necessary for everyday use. Premium grade matcha is a great compromise between quality and affordability, while culinary grade matcha is best suited for cooking and baking. Whichever matcha powder you choose, make sure to buy from a reputable supplier to ensure quality and freshness.
Best Brands of Matcha Powder
Matcha is a type of green tea that has grown in popularity due to its many health benefits. Starbucks has also caught on the matcha trend and has been using matcha powder to create delicious beverages. With so many brands available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the best matcha powder for your drinks. Here are some of the best brands of matcha powder that will take your matcha lattes to the next level.
- Jade Leaf Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder: This brand is known for its high-quality leaves and fine powder. It is sourced from Uji, Japan, and has a rich and vibrant taste. The matcha powder from Jade Leaf is organic, kosher, and suitable for vegans. The company also offers an affordable starter kit that includes a whisk and bowl.
- Encha Organic Matcha: This brand prides itself on using only first-harvest leaves, which are then shade-grown and carefully stone-ground. Its matcha powder has a smooth and creamy texture with a naturally sweet taste. Encha Organic Matcha is certified organic by the USDA and JAS, making it a safe choice for those who are health-conscious.
- Matcha Konomi: Matcha Konomi is a small, family-owned company that sources its matcha directly from Uji, Japan. Its matcha powder has a smooth texture and a natural umami flavor. Matcha Konomi also offers a premium matcha powder that is perfect for making high-quality matcha drinks.
Matcha Powder Grades
Before we dive into the different grades of matcha powder, it is essential to understand the production process of matcha. Matcha leaves are shaded for up to four weeks before they are harvested. This process increases chlorophyll levels in the leaves, giving them their vibrant green color. After harvesting, the leaves are steamed, dried, and then stone-ground into a fine powder.
The grade of matcha powder is determined by its color, texture, and flavor. There are three main grades of matcha powder:
| Grade | Characteristics | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Ceremonial grade | Bright green color, smooth texture, and sweet flavor | Used in tea ceremonies and for making high-quality matcha drinks |
| Premium grade | Dark green color, thicker texture, and mildly bitter flavor | Used for cooking and making matcha drinks with milk or sweeteners |
| Culinary grade | Dull green color, coarse texture, and astringent flavor | Used for cooking and making matcha drinks with milk or sweeteners |
Ceremonial grade matcha is the most expensive and is considered the highest quality. It is best consumed on its own or with a small amount of water. On the other hand, culinary grade matcha has a stronger taste and is suitable for cooking and baking.
How to Choose the Right Matcha Powder
Matcha lovers rejoice! You can now enjoy the delicious flavor of matcha at home by purchasing the right matcha powder. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the perfect one that matches your taste buds and health goals. Below are five tips to help you choose the right matcha powder.
- Look for vibrant green color: High-quality matcha powder has a bright green color, indicating that the tea leaves were shade-grown and harvested during the first flush. Avoid buying matcha powder that has a yellowish tone as it indicates that it’s low quality or stale.
- Check origin: Matcha powder comes from Japan, specifically from regions such as Uji, Nishio, and Kyoto. Japan’s matcha production is known for being the best in the world, so ensure that the matcha powder you buy is from Japan. Also, check if it’s organic as some matcha powders may contain pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
- Grade of matcha powder: Matcha powder comes in different grades, namely culinary, premium and ceremonial grade. Culinary grade is suitable for cooking or baking, while premium and ceremonial grade are used for drinking. Ceremonial grade matcha powder is the most expensive but offers the purest taste and highest quality.
- Flavor profile: Different matcha powders offer different flavor profiles. Some may have a strong vegetal taste while others have a nutty or sweet flavor. Consider your preference and taste the matcha powder before purchasing it.
- Price: High-quality matcha powder, especially ceremonial grade, can be expensive. However, it’s worth investing in it as you get to savor the real flavor and nutrients of the tea. Avoid buying cheap matcha powder as it may contain additives or be of low quality.
Matcha Brands Used by Starbucks
Starbucks is one popular coffee chain that serves creamy and smooth matcha lattes. They use matcha powder made by Teavana, a tea brand that’s owned by Starbucks. The Teavana matcha powder used in Starbucks is unsweetened and contains pure Japanese matcha powder. It’s also a blend of two high-quality matcha varieties from Japan, making it suitable for traditional tea ceremonies or a quick matcha fix.
| Brand | Origin | Grade | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teavana | Japan | Unspecified | Smooth, Creamy, and Sweet |
While Teavana matcha powder isn’t on the market, you can try other matcha brands to make your matcha latte at home. Ensure you pick high-quality matcha powder that’s vibrant green, organic, and with a smooth flavor profile. Remember that the best matcha powder is the one that matches your taste buds and health goals.
Traditional Japanese Matcha Tea Ceremony
In Japan, tea is more than just a beverage. It’s a tradition, a ritual, and a way of life. The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as “Chanoyu,” is a highly refined cultural practice that embodies harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. The tea ceremony is a symbol of Japanese hospitality and a way to cultivate mindfulness and appreciation of simple pleasures.
- The tea ceremony typically takes place in a “chashitsu,” a specially designed tea room that reflects the principles of Wabi-sabi aestheticism.
- The tea ceremony involves many preparations, including the selection of quality ingredients, tools, and equipment, the careful cleaning and arrangement of the tea room, and the proper attire and behavior of the guests and the host.
- The tea ceremony follows a strict protocol and consists of designated steps, such as the purification of the utensils, the preparation of the tea powder known as “matcha,” the serving of the tea, and the drinking of the tea in a prescribed manner.
The tea used in the tea ceremony is usually high-quality, shade-grown, stone-ground green tea called “matcha.” Matcha is made from the tender and flavorful leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant, which are hand-picked, steamed, dried, and then ground into a fine powder using traditional granite mills.
Starbucks, one of the biggest coffee shop chains in the world, has also introduced matcha to its menu. However, the matcha used by Starbucks is not traditional Japanese matcha, but rather a blend of matcha and sugar, which makes it sweeter and more palatable to the western taste buds. Starbucks matcha is sourced from different countries, such as Japan, China, and Korea, and then mixed with other ingredients to achieve a unique flavor and consistency.
| Brand name | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Tazo Matcha | A blend of ceremonial grade matcha and sugar |
| Teavana Matcha | A blend of culinary grade matcha and other ingredients, such as sugar and vanilla flavoring |
Although Starbucks matcha may not be as authentic as traditional Japanese matcha, it brings the experience of matcha to a wider audience and provides a convenient and accessible way to enjoy the taste and benefits of green tea. Moreover, Starbucks matcha can be customized to suit individual preferences, such as the amount of sweetness and milk used. Whether you prefer your matcha in a modern latte or a traditional tea ceremony, the important thing is to savor the moment and appreciate the beauty of the tea culture.
Matcha Recipes for Your Daily Dose of Antioxidants
Matcha green tea, with its concentration of antioxidants, is a beneficial ingredient to add to your daily diet. Fortunately, there are several ways to consume matcha that are both refreshing and delicious. Here are some of our favorite matcha recipes:
- Matcha Latte: Combine 1 teaspoon of matcha powder, 1 cup of milk (or a dairy-free alternative), and honey or another sweetener to taste. Whisk together and serve hot or iced.
- Matcha Smoothie: In a blender, add 1 banana, 1 tablespoon of matcha powder, 1 cup of milk (or a dairy-free alternative), and a handful of spinach. Blend until smooth and enjoy.
- Matcha Chia Pudding: Mix together 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, 1 tablespoon of matcha powder, and 1 cup of coconut milk (or a milk alternative). Let sit overnight in the refrigerator, and serve with fresh fruit or granola on top.
Not only are these matcha recipes delicious, but they are also packed with antioxidants that provide numerous health benefits. Here are just a few:
1. Boosts Metabolism: Matcha contains catechins, which help increase the body’s metabolism, leading to increased calorie burning and weight loss.
2. Supports Brain Health: The L-theanine in matcha improves focus and mental clarity, while also reducing anxiety and stress.
3. Reduces Inflammation: Matcha’s high concentration of antioxidants helps to reduce inflammation in the body, leading to improved joint health, lower risk of chronic diseases, and clearer skin.
So, next time you’re looking for a healthy and tasty way to get your daily dose of antioxidants, try one of these matcha recipes!
What Brand Matcha Does Starbucks Use: FAQs
Q1. What brand of matcha does Starbucks use?
Starbucks uses a blend of matcha powder made from Japanese stone-ground matcha and sugar. The brand of matcha is not disclosed by the company.
Q2. Is Starbucks’ matcha organic?
Starbucks’ matcha powder is not labeled as organic. However, the company claims that the matcha powder is of high quality and sourced from the best tea estates in Japan.
Q3. Does Starbucks’ matcha contain any additives?
Starbucks’ matcha powder contains only two ingredients: Japanese Matcha and sugar. It does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Q4. Can I buy Starbucks’ matcha powder?
Starbucks’ matcha powder is not available for purchase in their stores. However, the company offers various matcha drinks, such as the Matcha Latte and Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte.
Q5. How does Starbucks prepare their matcha drinks?
Starbucks prepares their matcha drinks by whisking matcha powder with steamed milk or water, depending on the type of drink. The matcha powder is first mixed with a small amount of hot water to create a paste, then more hot water or steamed milk is added.
Q6. Is Starbucks’ matcha sweet?
Starbucks’ matcha powder contains sugar, which makes the drinks sweet. However, customers can request for less or no sugar in their matcha drinks.
Q7. Are there any caffeine in Starbucks’ matcha?
Yes, there is caffeine in Starbucks’ matcha drinks. However, the caffeine content is lower than coffee.
Closing Thoughts on What Brand Matcha Does Starbucks Use
Thank you for reading this article on what brand matcha does Starbucks use. Although the brand of matcha powder is not disclosed by the company, Starbucks claims that their matcha powder is of high quality and sourced from the best tea estates in Japan. If you’re a matcha lover, we recommend trying Starbucks’ matcha drinks like the Matcha Latte and Iced Matcha Green Tea Latte. We hope this article has provided you with helpful information, and we encourage you to visit again for more articles related to food and beverage. Cheers!