Matcha Myths vs. Facts
Posted by Aiya Matcha on Sep 29th 2025
What You Really Need to Know
Matcha is everywhere right now, lattes, desserts, skincare, but with popularity comes a swirl of misinformation. Is it really good for you? Does it have less caffeine than coffee? And what about that vibrant green color, natural or not?
Let’s clear the air with some Matcha myth-busting. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the world of Matcha, here’s what’s true, and what’s not.
Myth #1: Matcha and Green Tea Are the Same Thing
Fact: While Matcha comes from green tea leaves, it’s processed differently. The leaves are shade-grown, de-stemmed, stone-ground, and you consume the entire leaf when drinking Matcha, so you’re getting more nutrients than steeped green tea.
Myth #2: All Ceremonial Matcha Is the Same
Fact: Not quite! The term Matcha covers a wide range of quality, but Ceremonial Grade Matcha is in a class of its own. This is the highest grade of Matcha, traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies and known for its bright green color, silky texture, and naturally sweet, umami-rich taste. There are no regulations around the term “Ceremonial Matcha,” which is why you may notice wide variations in color, flavor, and overall quality among store-bought Matcha.
Myth #3: Matcha Has No Caffeine
Fact: Matcha does have caffeine, about half as much as coffee, but it also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes focus.
Myth #4: That Bright Green Color Isn’t Natural
Fact: High-quality Matcha gets its vibrant color from careful cultivation and shading techniques, not artificial dyes. Lower-grade Matcha can look dull or yellowish. Aiya’s Nishio-grown leaves thrive in nutrient-dense soil, resulting in that signature bright, resilient green.
Myth #5: Matcha Only Works in Sweet Baking Recipes
Fact: Matcha’s rich flavor pairs beautifully with savory dishes too. Think noodles, salad dressings, or even croquettes.
Myth #6: All Matcha Tastes the Same
Fact: Matcha flavor depends on origin, quality, and freshness. Aiya produces both ceremonial-grade Matcha for traditional sipping and culinary-grade Matcha perfect for drink recipes, baking and cooking, so you can match the product to your recipe.
More Matcha, Less Misinformation
Next time you sip on a Matcha latte or whip up a Matcha dessert, you can enjoy it knowing the real facts behind the flavor, and the careful process behind every scoop. For even more recipes and Matcha know-how, check out Aiya's Blogs for endless inspiration.