FAQs

Matcha is a type of powdered green tea originating from Japan. It does however differ from typical green tea you may be more familiar with, especially regarding the cultivation and processing of the tea leaves. Here's a bit more detail about matcha:

1. Cultivation: Matcha is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, the same plant used to make other types of green tea. However, the tea plants for matcha are shade-grown for about three to four weeks before harvest. This increases chlorophyll production, boosts the amino acid content, and gives the leaves a darker green color.

2. Processing: After harvesting, the leaves are steamed to prevent fermentation, then dried and aged in cold storage to deepen the flavour. The dried leaves, known as tencha, are then ground into a fine powder using traditional stone mills.

3. Preparation: Unlike other green teas, which are infused and then discarded, matcha is whisked with hot water and consumed entirely. This means you ingest the whole tea leaf and receive 100% of its nutrients.

4. Health Benefits: Matcha is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, linked to various health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved heart health. It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness, and a moderate amount of caffeine.

5. Culinary Uses: Besides being consumed as a tea, matcha is also used as an ingredient in various recipes, including smoothies, lattes, desserts, and savoury dishes.

6. Cultural Significance: Matcha is an integral part of Japanese tea ceremonies, which emphasize the preparation, serving, and consumption of the tea in a meditative and ritualistic manner.

Our matcha comes from a small family farm in Uji, Kyoto. This is one of the most highly renowned matcha-growing regions in Japan, with matcha being grown and farmed there for over 800 years. Matcha was brought to Japan by the Buddhist monk, Eisai, who is thought to have introduced matcha to Japanese tea ceremonies.

To prepare matcha, you'll need a few essential tools and ingredients. Here’s a basic guide to what you need and how to use them:

Essential Tools:

1. Matcha Powder: High-quality matcha powder is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Look for ceremonial-grade matcha for drinking and culinary-grade matcha for cooking and baking. Our matcha is the highest quality 'ceremonial grade' and can be purchased here.

2. Chawan (Matcha Bowl): A wide, shallow bowl that allows for whisking the matcha properly. We have partnered with Porch Ceramics to create a bespoke matcha bowl which you can purchase here.

3. Chasen (Bamboo Whisk): A bamboo whisk specifically designed to mix matcha and water, creating a frothy texture. This can be purchased here. We also worked with Porch Ceramics to create a unique whisk stand design to house your whisk. This allows appropriate drying of the whisk with slight separation of the bamboo prongs. This is also available here.

4. Chashaku (Bamboo Scoop): A bamboo scoop used to measure the right amount of matcha powder. Whilst this is traditional, we decided to create a stainless steel spoon for greater longevity and perfectly sized for the correct portion. This is available here.

5. Sifter: A small sifter or fine mesh strainer to remove clumps from the matcha powder. Our sieve is available here.

Once matcha has been opened, the oxidation process can occur, resulting in less freshness. This is the main reason why matcha is typically sold only in small quantities at a time (typically 30-40g tin or pouch). Once opened, matcha is best stored in the fridge (but we recommend storing it away from food if possible). It is best consumed within 1-3 months from opening. An unopened tin of matcha will remain fresh for 6 months from harvest.

Yes, matcha does contain caffeine! Though less than what is found in your average cup of coffee. Per serving, matcha contains approximately 30-40mg of caffeine.

Caffeine Experience:

• Matcha: The presence of L-theanine in matcha helps to provide a more sustained and calm energy boost, often described as a "calm alertness."

• Coffee: Coffee typically delivers a quicker and more pronounced energy spike due to its higher caffeine content and the lack of L-theanine.

Whilst there are no strict guidelines on matcha consumption, if you are sensitive to caffeine then you may wish to limit your intake to one or two servings per day. We personally enjoy one in the morning and second in the early afternoon!

Sift! Sift! Sift! This is an essential step when preparing matcha to ensure smoother matcha for whisking. If you do not have a sifter, you can purchase one here.

Matcha production can have both positive and negative environmental impacts. Here's a breakdown of its environmental friendliness:

Positive Aspects:

1. Organic Farming:

   • Some matcha producers use organic farming methods, which avoid synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Organic farming can enhance soil health, protect local ecosystems, and reduce pollution.

2. Shade-Growing:

   • The shade-growing process for matcha tea plants helps to sequester carbon, as the shading trees and the tea plants themselves absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

3. Minimal Processing:

   • Matcha production involves minimal processing compared to other beverages. The primary steps are shading, harvesting, steaming, drying, and grinding, which generally have a lower environmental footprint compared to more intensive processing methods.

Negative Aspects:

1. Pesticides and Fertilizers:

   • Non-organic matcha production may involve the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, which can lead to soil degradation, water pollution, and harm to local wildlife.

2. Water Usage:

   • Like many agricultural products, tea cultivation requires significant water resources. Sustainable water management practices are crucial to minimize environmental impact.

3. Energy Consumption:

   • The grinding of matcha into a fine powder using stone mills can be energy-intensive. The environmental impact depends on the energy source used (e.g., renewable vs. non-renewable energy).

The good news? Our Matcha is pesticide-free and grown using resource-efficient methods to ensure sustainable practices.

For now, we only ship within Australia. If you are interested in our matcha and overseas, please reach out to hello@zenergimatcha.com.au.

We use Australia Post as our preferred provider and we will provide you with a tracking code once sent.

We use Australia Post as our preferred provider.

We offer standard shipping for $10 for orders less than $75.

Express shipping is available for $15.

Standard shipping is free for orders over $75.