1. Quality Compromised by Demand
Matcha production is a long, labour-intensive process, which naturally limits supply. As global demand has surged with the recent matcha boom, Japanese farmers are struggling to keep up.
To meet demand, first-flush matcha is often blended with lower-grade (culinary) or mixed-origin powders. Meanwhile, other countries are producing powdered teas that aren’t true matcha — but are marketed as such.
As a result, real matcha is often misunderstood — giving the drink an undeserved bad reputation.
2. Loss of Traditions & Principles
One of the initial reason for Matcha’s popularity stems from its deep roots in Japanese tea ceremonies, which embody four principles: Wa (和) – harmony, Kei (敬) – respect, Sei (清) – purity, and Jaku (寂) – tranquillity.
However, with the rise of the matcha trend, the focus has shifted from tradition and cultural respect to hype-driven consumption and mass production.
It’s become less about slowing down and savouring the moment — and more about chasing trends, slowly losing touch with what matcha truly represents.
3. From Handpicked to Mass-Produced
Matcha isn’t the same as green tea. It goes through a meticulous process of shade-growing, handpicking, and stone grinding, which limits how much can be produced. Because of this, Japan’s supply can’t keep up with global demand.
To fill the gap, other markets have industrialized production — bulk harvesting, mixing different tea powders, and machine grinding — then selling it all as “matcha.” This mass production has led to a decline in quality and a growing misconception of what real matcha truly is.
A CONSCIOUS MIND WHEN SIPPING
Matcha isn’t just a trend — it’s a tradition deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Each sip should carry respect for its origin and craft.
Be mindful of what you’re buying. True first-flush, single-origin matcha is vibrant, smooth, and complex — worlds apart from culinary blends made for lattes or baking. Don’t be swayed by labels or hype; check for harvest season, origin, and colour.
A conscious consumer keeps the spirit of matcha alive — with harmony, respect, purity, and tranquillity in every cup.
