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The best matcha powders to help boost energy and increase concentration
Taste Approved by our expert panel
Tested by Callum Black, Georgia Turnell and JoJo Anastasiou
Following in the footsteps of goji berries, chia seeds and kale, matcha is *the* superfood of the moment. The vibrant green powder has been used for centuries in East Asia, but over the past few years, it has soared in popularity around the world, with the global matcha market projected to reach a cool $6.4 billion by 2031. So we've been busy sipping and scouring ingredients lists to find the best matcha powders on the market.
Step into any high street coffee shop and chances are, you’ll find matcha lattes and iced matchas on the menu alongside your regular flat whites and americanos. Thanks to its attractive green hue, it's probably all over your Instagram feed too, with people turning to the green stuff for a crash-free energy boost.
Thinking about swapping your morning cuppa for a frothy matcha? Read on for everything you need to know about the food and drink trend du jour, plus the best matcha powders on the market right now.
Focusing on your health and wellness in 2025? We’ve tested the best greens powders, the best mushroom coffees and the best protein powders, too.
The best matcha powders for 2025
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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.
Score: 89/100
Our winning matcha is an organic, ceremonial grade powder sourced from pesticide-free tea fields in the foothills of Mount Kirishima, Japan. It’s best appreciated in the traditional way – mixed with hot water – but it also works well in lattes or served over ice.
It instantly impressed our expert panel, who described it as a “standout matcha” and raved about its neon green colour, creamy texture and silky-smooth mouthfeel. The rich, umami flavour is well-balanced with a hint of sweetness, so it’s not too bitter or overwhelming on the palate.
Key specifications
| Grade | Ceremonial |
|---|---|
| Serving size | 2g |
Score: 83/100
Our runner up from OMGTEA also ticks the ‘organic’ and ‘ceremonial grade' boxes. It’s sourced in Japan, made exclusively with leaves from the top of the plant and is ground using a traditional granite stone mil. The brand recommends consuming it as a tea “to truly appreciate its exquisite taste” but you can add it to frothy milk if you prefer.
Testers praised the silky, lump-free consistency of the powder, noting that it blended seamlessly with water and didn’t leave any unwanted residue. The well-rounded flavour has a pronounced green tea bitterness but it’s also grassy, sweet and easy to drink. An "interesting” and “impressive” all-rounder, according to our panel.
Key specifications
| Grade | Ceremonial |
|---|---|
| Serving size | 1g |
Score: 81/100
For those who are just getting into matcha, this delicate, premium-grade blend is the perfect introduction. The organic powder comes from the hills of Kyoto and is made using an ancient farming approach by a third-generation tea family.
Testers praised the bright colour and enjoyed the light texture. Thanks to subtle notes of umami, citrus and coffee, the flavour is mellow with minimal bitterness and it’s extremely drinkable. Mix it with hot water, whisk it up with milk or add it your morning smoothie for a jitter-free energy boost. At under £10 for 40 servings, it offers excellent value for money.
Key specifications
| Grade | Premium |
|---|---|
| Serving size | 1g |
Score: 81/100
From salted caramel to gingerbread, we’re big fans of Twinings teas, and its matcha option proved popular. It’s organic, ceremonial grade and grown on family farms in the Kagoshima and Shizuoka regions of Japan.
You can enjoy it the classic way with hot water, but according to our experts, it’s a great base for hot, foamy matcha lattes and refreshing iced drinks. Our panel described the flavour as “fresh and delicate” and thought it hit the perfect balance between bitter and sweet. A crowd-pleaser.
Key specifications
| Grade | Ceremonial |
|---|---|
| Serving size | 1g |
Score: 79/100
Kiki Health’s ceremonial grade matcha has a mellow flavour and a fine texture, which is ideal for smoothies, milkshakes and creamy iced beverages. It’s also another reliable pick if this is your first foray into matcha powders and don’t fancy anything too strong or bitter.
The organic tea leaves are grown in Kyoto, Japan, and the matcha powder is made using the youngest, most tender leaves from the first spring harvest, so it’s no surprise it has an intense green hue.
Top tip: whizz it up with some coconut milk, cacao powder and maple syrup for a comforting afternoon pick-me-up.
Key specifications
| Grade | Ceremonial |
|---|---|
| Serving size | 2.5-5g depending on personal preference |
Score: 78/100
If your daily coffee shop matcha is crippling your bank account but you still want to get your fix each morning, B Corp certified brand Bird & Blend is here to save the day with its ceremonial grade Japanese powder.
Our panel thought it was a great choice for matcha lattes, noting that the earthy flavours would work well with any type of milk. We tried the original matcha but there are a host of tempting flavours in the range, including maple pecan pancakes and raspberry ripple.
Bird & Blend also offers a happiness guarantee – if you’re not 100% satisfied, the brand will replace your product or offer you a refund.
Key specifications
| Grade | Ceremonial |
|---|---|
| Serving size | ½ teaspoon |
Score: 76/100
Bulk is best known for its protein bars and powders (you'll find it in our best protein bar roundup), but its affordable matcha offering is also worth considering. It’s a culinary grade powder, so it’s a great choice for adding to smoothies and sweet or savoury bakes, although it can be enjoyed with milk or water.
The “strong and robust” flavour pleased our panel, who said it struck the perfect balance between earthy and bitter.
Whether you’re dipping your toe into the world of matcha and don’t want to spend over the odds, or you’re looking to get creative in the kitchen, it's a solid option.
Key specifications
| Grade | Culinary |
|---|---|
| Serving size | 2.5g |
The verdict on matcha powders
If you’re after a top-quality ceremonial grade matcha that tastes delicious in its purest form, our winning SAYURI Ceremonial organic matcha is an excellent choice.
For matcha newbies, Clearspring Premium Grade Matcha Green Tea Powder is an excellent introduction to the world of powdered green tea. It’s light, refreshing and extremely easy to drink.
On a budget? Bulk's culinary grade matcha powder offers fantastic value for money, and it tastes good, too.
Is matcha healthier than coffee?
More and more people are ditching their morning coffee for a matcha-based brew, but is it actually better for you?
Not necessarily, says Dr Amati, who notes that both matcha and coffee are rich is phytonutrients. “We have countless studies stretching back decades on the health benefits of coffee, but we don’t yet know how matcha affects human health.” she says.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you’re someone who experiences jitters after drinking coffee, matcha might be a better option, but if you simply can’t abide the taste, then stick with coffee.
Is matcha an acquired taste?
Matcha has a grassy, bitter umami taste, which can take some getting used to. If you have a sweet tooth, you can add a splash of sweetener or syrup to dial down the intense flavour.
Is matcha safe for everyone?
Matcha is generally safe for most people. However, if you’re particularly sensitive to caffeine, it may not be right for you. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or have any underlying medical conditions, it’s advisable to consult your doctor before making any dietary changes.
Is it okay to drink matcha every day?
Yes, you can drink matcha on a daily basis. Just keep in mind that it contains caffeine, so moderation is key. Most people should consume no more than two cups a day to stay within the recommended 400mg caffeine limit.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Callum is our Food and Drink Testing Manager and has been part of the world of professional catering for 10 years, from cheffing to food manufacturing. While working in manufacturing he specialised in bespoke product and menu development for several start-ups and well-known brands such as Wrap It Up! and HOP Vietnamese. He holds the WSET Level 2 in wine, a Level 3 in spirits and has a particular interest in agave spirits.
Georgia has been part of the hospitality industry for the last nine years. Her starting point was the world-renowned Le Cordon Bleu culinary school where she gained a Diplôme de Pâtisserie. She has worked at a number of well-known restaurants and bakeries including The Club at the Ivy and Ottolenghi, Notting Hill where she was the head pastry chef. Most recently, Georgia worked at The Clink Bakery inside HMP Brixton, which aims to reduce reoffending through teaching. She is an expert in all things baked goods and holds a WSET level 2 in wine.
Joanna Anastasiou is our Food and Drinks Tester, and has completed certifications in Sensory Foundation and WSET Wine Level 2 training. Prior to this she studied geography with conservation biology at the University of Exeter and trained at Ballymaloe Cookery School in Ireland. Through this she has developed a passion for sustainability within the food and agricultural sectors. Joanna also volunteers in kitchens with FoodCycle, as well as on multiple wildlife conservation projects, where she formed a particular love for bees!
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