The Rise Of Matcha

Looking for a calm, clean energy boost without the coffee crash? Matcha’s your new best mate. Over the last few years, you may have noticed the rapid increase in popularity for the bright green powder, known as Matcha. Let’s talk about what it is, why it’s so popular and introduce you to PerfectTed.

Why is matcha all the rage right now?

In short, matcha is a finely ground powder made from specifically grown green tea leaves.

Whilst green tea involves steeping the leaves and discarding them, to make matcha, you grind the whole leaves into a very fine powder. The tea plants themselves are shade-grown, which boosts their chlorophyll, giving matcha its infamous fluorescent green colour.

In order to get the matcha finely ground, it’s traditionally done using a granite stone mill. Whilst this process is slow, it prevents leaves from burning and gives the end powder the smooth texture we know.

The flavour of matcha itself is earthy, sweet with a bright umami flavour. But does have grassy notes along with a bitterness to balance the other flavours.

Matcha could be found in the UK nearly 10 years ago, but it’s only in the last couple of years that it’s started appearing all over Instagram and in your favourite coffee shops. What could be the reasons for its sudden surge of popularity, we hear you asking?

There’s been a clear shift in recent years in how health-conscious and wellness-focussed we all are. People are on the hunt for healthier alternatives to their favourite food and drink, or shifting their lifestyles to ensure they are as healthy as possible. This is where matcha slots in with its clear proven health benefits, filled with antioxidants and supporting some key body functions.

Just like us, you’re most likely seeing matcha when you’re doomscrolling, on every 4 posts you scroll past, most likely. It’s clear that social media has played a huge part in the rapid growth of matcha. Its vibrant colour makes it one of the most instagrammable drinks on the market today.

Before matcha took over our Instagram, you may also see trending drinks like bubble tea or even delgona coffee, which went viral in lockdown.

Why your body will love it

Matcha has some pretty impressive benefits for those who drink it. As mentioned above, it’s filled with antioxidants, which are great at protecting your body’s cells. Matcha's caffeine content gives you an extended boost of energy with less chance of jitters, and it also promotes relaxation and clarity.

Studies have shown to suggest that consuming matcha may support your heart by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. Following more research, it may also boost your metabolism, along with helping with weight management.

Which should you choose?

This is a frequently asked question for those new to matcha, so we thought we’d summarise the key differences here.

Ceremonial Grade - This is the highest quality matcha. Created from the youngest tea plants, giving the most tender leaves. As the leaves are at their most tender, this gives the end powder a much brighter colour. Ceremonial grade has an incredibly smooth texture and naturally very sweet flavours. This grade is far more expensive than culinary grade, so designed to be whisked and enjoyed on its own with water or milk.

Culinary Grade - Slightly older leaves give it a less vibrant colour. Leaves are picked when they’re slightly older, giving a slightly more bitter taste. As the name suggests, you’ll often find culinary-grade used within kitchens where it can stand up against other ingredients, like sugar syrups. If you’re looking to whip up a Strawberry Matcha Latte, a culinary-grade matcha would work perfectly.

Say hello to the UK’s favourite Matcha, PerfectTed

PerfectTed, who shot to fame from their successful pitch on Dragons' Den, are on one simple mission: spread positive energy. Ted and Marisa, founders of PerfectTed, want to give their customers an alternative to coffee which releases its energy far more slowly.

Since launching, they have seen huge success and now have a full range of flavoured matcha powder, matcha energy drinks and matcha Nespresso pods. They now call themselves the #1 matcha brand in the UK, and we agree!

Perfect Ted Matcha is now available to purchase on our website.