QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

MATCHA PREPARATION

Is matcha supposed to be brewed just like a normal leaf tea?

Matcha consists in tealeaves finely ground into powder. It should be prepared through mixing the green tea powder with liquid – just like traditional cocoa powder. Matcha, unlike standard leaf tea, is not supposed to undergo the traditional process of brewing. It’s ready to drink right after combining it with a liquid of choice. We do not recommend choosing matcha in the form of teabags, as in such form it simply doesn’t fulfill its valuable functions. A genuine matcha is available in a form of fine powder, which allows one to consume not only the infusion, but the whole tea leaves, which is what matcha’s phenomenon truly consists in.

How to prepare a matcha drink?

We suggest trying one of these three easy and reliable ways of matcha preparation. The first one is the traditional process of matcha preparation with the use of a matchawan and a chasen – bamboo whisk – which you can further explore HERE. Matcha can also be prepared with the use of a mug or a bowl, and a regular milk frother. The third way consists in preparing matcha in a shaker or a regular bottle – you just have to put a portion of a matcha powder into a vessel of choice, put the bottle cap back on firmly and thoroughly mix for about 30 seconds.

What is the optimal temperature for matcha preparation?

The optimal temperature of liquid, in which one should prepare one’s matcha, should be equal to around 80°C. It can be obtained through using a kettle equipped with a thermometer or through cooling down boiled water for 10 minutes since the moment of boiling. Matcha should not be poured over with boiling water, for it then loses some of its nutritional quality. It can be, however, prepared in a temperature lower than 80°C.

How much matcha powder do I need in order to prepare one matcha drink?

The optimal amount of matcha is approximately 1,5g powder per 200-250ml liquid.

Is it allowed to sweeten matcha drinks? Don’t some of the liquids added to matcha (e.g. milk or juice) alter or decrease its nutritional properties?

Matcha with various additions retains the same set of properties as matcha sauté. The key condition is to prepare matcha in a temperature equal to or lower than 80°C. However, according to several studies, casein – a protein found in cow’s milk – can somehow disturb the antioxidants’ absorption, which is why we would rather recommend consumption of matcha with plant-based milks. Popular sweeteners, such as white or cane sugar, honey, xylitol, agave or maple syrup, do not alter matcha’s properties. They do, however, slightly increase the caloric content of the drink.

What is matcha latte and how to prepare it?

Matcha latte does not resemble caffe latte, when it comes to flavor, but the process of their preparation looks pretty similar. Matcha latte is one of the most popular and most beloved forms of matcha drink. A classic matcha latte is served with milk, water, and a sweetener of choice (e.g. honey or sugar). The taste of matcha latte is particularly creamy and subtle.

Can matcha latte be served cold? How to prepare it in such a form?

Matcha can be consumed at any temperature not exceeding 80°C. The process of preparation consists in the very same steps, as in case of preparation with hot liquid – all you have to do is thoroughly mix matcha powder with the chosen liquid. It may be a bit more difficult to obtain the foam on the surface of your cold matcha drink. It is not, however, something to worry about, as the flavour remains unchanged and equally delicious.

Is the sediment at the bottom of my matchawan normal?

This sediment is simply undissolved matcha powder, which has settled at the bottom of the vessel. Such phenomenon is safe and completely normal. In order to get rid of the sediment, you should once again thoroughly mix matcha with the liquid. We recommend you to do so with the use of a chasen – bamboo whisk,  or a milk frother.

 How to get rid of the clumps of matcha powder?

The clumps are the result of an insufficiently thorough mixing process. In order to get rid of them, you should combine the matcha powder and liquid of choice as thoroughly as possible. When preparing your matcha with a cold liquid, it is optimal to first blend it with warm liquid, and then add cold water, milk, juice, or other beverage. Such method of preparation guarantees a clump-free matcha drink.

How to brew other kinds of Moya teas?

The manual and the brewing time are specified on each packaging of our leaf teas.

ACCESSORIES

Are all of the traditional accessories required in order to prepare a matcha drink?

Traditional accessories available on our website facilitate the process of matcha preparation and increase the pleasure stemming from the ritual. Such accessories are: a bamboo whisk known as chasen, a bamboo spoon chashaku, a ceramic bowl called matchawan, and a chasen holder.  However, there is a myriad of other alternative ways to properly prepare a matcha drink, such as preparation with the use of a milk frother or mixing matcha powder with the liquid in a shaker. No matter what method of preparation you will choose, the process won’t take more than 1 minute. A genuine matcha powder comes in a form of fine powder, which enables the consumer to absorb not only the green tea brew, but the whole green tea leaf (this is what matcha is all about!). That’s why we do not recommend purchasing matcha in bags destined for brewing. It is good to start completing the set of traditional accessories with the purchase of a chasen.

How to take a good care of the accessories made of bamboo?

The accessories, which are made of natural bamboo, should be cleaned with the use of warm water. They are not suitable for cleaning in the dishwasher. Chasen – bamboo whisk – should be rinsed with water after each use and left to air dry. Chasen should not be put away to a plastic container. If the whisk is severely stained, it can be put into a vessel filled with warm water for a day (so that the wooden handle is its only part sticking out). Warm water will make the matcha’s leftovers dissolve. In the following steps, the chasen should be rinsed with warm water again and left to air dry.

How to clean the pottery?

The recommendation concerning cleaning are included on the website of each of our ceramic product. If the vessel is not suitable for the dishwasher cleaning, it can be simply cleaned with a sponge and a washing-up liquid. Our wooden bowls should be cleaned with warm water right after usage, and should not be put into a dishwasher.

MATCHA’S IMPACT ON HEALTH – matcha’s properties

How does matcha powder differ from other green teas?

A regular leaf green tea is consumed in the form of a brew – water with the substances, which the leaves will be able to release during the infusion time. Matcha, on the other hand, is made of powdered green tea leaves, which are consumed once they are combined with the liquid. This is why, while drinking matcha, one absorbs whole tea leaves (in the form of a fine powder), which allows the absorption of all of the amazing nutritional elements. In case of a regular leaf tea in turn a majority of elements remains at the bottom of the mug within the soaked leaves. And this is what the major difference between leaf tea and matcha consists in.

Matcha’s effect is several times more powerful than the one of traditional leaf teas.

Will drinking matcha make me lose weight?

Matcha green tea is one of great ways to supplement everyday diet and it may turn out to be really helpful on the weight loss journey. However, we recommend those of you, who struggle with obesity or problems with metabolism, to consult with a certified dietician. More on matcha’s weight loss-effect HERE.

Is matcha healthy even in desserts?

Matcha is one of the healthiest potential additions to the desserts, as it is an irreplaceable metabolism-booster, highly increasing the digestion of fats and sugars contained within the meal. However, it is important to remember that, when exposed to high temperatures, it loses its slimming properties, which is why it will not work as an addition to desserts prepared in the temperature higher than 80C.

How much caffeine does matcha contain? Can it be consumed at any time of the day?

1g matcha contains approximately 35mg caffeine, which is why it is best to consume matcha during the first half of the day. Due to a simultaneous presence of L-theanin, caffeine found within matcha powder is being released gradually, which guarantees a constant flow of concentration and doesn’t result in a sudden decrease in energy after a couple of hours. Its effect is most noticeable during the first 2 hours after matcha consumption.

Which kind of matcha contains the highest amounts of nutritional elements?

Our Matcha Premium stands out from the other grades with the highest content of caffeine and polyphenols. The second healthiest matcha grade is Traditional, then Daily, and Culinary.

Which matcha grade is the most powerful stimulant?

Matcha Premium is the grade containing the highest levels of caffeine.

Is the matcha effect similar to the effects obtained through drinking yerba?

Both yerba matte and matcha contain caffeine, so they both show stimulating properties. However, in case of matcha this effect of increased activity is slightly different. The presence of L-theanin – an amino acid with relaxing properties present in matcha – soothes and elongates the caffeine’s effect. The result is the effect of certain mindfulness, which, in contrast with caffeine found in yerba or coffee, persists for many hours and does not result in a sudden energetic breakdown.

Do matcha and leaf teas have an anti-aging effect?

Matcha and green tea deliver high amounts of polyphenols. Polyphenols – also known as antioxidants – are chemical compounds, which reduce oxidation – the process, which causes damage to the tissues and hence propels aging processes. Food products – e.g. matcha and green teas, can provide antioxidants helping to stop or slow down the death of cells. The most recent studies, conducted by e.g. Kiel University in Germany, have shown that antioxidants can also activate SIRT proteins, responsible for regeneration and reconstruction.

How many antioxidants and polyphenols does matcha contain?

Matcha is one of the most absorbable and richest sources of antioxidants – particles of a strong antioxidant and anticarcinogenic effect. On the ORAC scale – a certified indicator of antioxidants found within different products’ potential – matcha scored between 1350-1550 points, which ranks it above goji berries, acai, chia, and other famous superfoods.

HOW TO START DRINKING MATCHA

With which matcha grade should I start my matcha journey?

Matcha Traditional is definitely our most universal product. It is characterized by a moderate bitterness and distinct dimension of umami flavour. It can be drunk with water, milk or in the form of matcha latte and various smoothies. If it turns out to be a great fit from the very beginning, Matcha Daily could turn out to be a good next step, as it possesses a slightly more intense bitterness. And if, on the other hand, Matcha Traditional turns out to be too bitter, we recommend you to try Matcha Premium.

Which matcha grade should I choose?

If you are a matcha connoisseur, we recommend you to purchase Matcha Premium from the finest leaves from the first harvest, suitable for drinking with water. When it comes to drinking matcha with milk or water, we suggest choosing Matcha Traditional. Matcha Daily would be the best addition to oatmeal, yoghurts, or smoothies. Matcha Culinary is destined for ice cream and desserts, and we particularly recommend it for the owners of coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and gastronomy.

When will the first effects of drinking matcha appear?

An increased energy level and concentration is noticeable instantly after matcha consumption. It is similar to the effect of a cup of coffee, only a bit quicker, for matcha passes through the blood-brain barrier a lot faster. This effect will last for several hours after consumption. Matcha boosts digestion processes equally quickly. The slimming effects, fat tissue loss, improved skin condition, or peace of mind will appear as soon as after one month of regular daily matcha consumption.

How to get used to the taste of matcha?

For the total matcha beginners, matcha’s flavour may appear to be strange and specific. At the beginning, it is worth consuming matcha e.g. with an addition of milk of as an addition to other beverages (e.g. smoothies) and meals (e.g. oatmeal), in order to slightly neutralize its flavour.

What accessories should I buy at the beginning?

At the beginning of your matcha journey, we recommend you to purchase a chasen – bamboo whisk. Chasen is destined for Japanese traditional matcha preparation, which makes matcha powder evenly blended with the liquid. Matcha preparation with the use of a chasen takes only a minute and is a particularly relaxing activity. The next recommended steps are the purchase of a matchawan (ceramic bowl) and a chashaku – bamboo spoon.

QUALITY OF MATCHA

Why is it worth choosing Japanese matcha?

The cult of matcha and tea has been an element of Japanese culture for centuries. Japan is renowned for its diligent methods of tea cultivation, while the production in other countries becomes increasingly mechanized – and the quality of matcha powder is losing out on that process. Moya Matcha is carefully cultivated and harvested on small, sustainable, organic tea fields, which are to be found only in the Japanese tradition of tea cultivation. It is then locally manufactured, hermetically packed and sent away in small portions, which are then instantly put into the cold store, so that they retain a maximum freshness. Such method of storage does also help matcha to retain all of its precious properties and unchanged amounts of minerals and antioxidants. The quality of Moya Matcha’s products is confirmed by the Japanese JONA certificate, characterized by particularly strict criteria.

Why choose organic matcha and leaf tea?

Organic food products (of plant or animal origin) are the ones, which have been produced without the use of any kind of man-made accelerants. Such process of production does not interfere with the natural cycle of nature, as it does not contain any kind of pesticides or artificial fertilizers. Organic products are therefore free from any toxins or chemicals, and their sustainable production does not endanger our planet Earth.

Is matcha expensive? And if so – why?

Matcha is not the cheapest product – although, after conversion, one portion of Matcha Daily (from the 30g format) costs only €0,38, which is a cost comparable to the one of a good coffee. And the unit cost in case of larger packaging formats is even lower. There are several factors constituting the final price for matcha. Such factors are demanding, limited production, certification in Japan and Europe, transport, duties, the cost of production and special packaging. In return, when buying our products you can be sure that you are purchasing matcha of the highest quality.

How can I be sure that your matcha and leaf teas do actually come from Japan?

Our products have been awarded an official globally renowned JONA quality certificate (Japan Organic & Natural Foods Association), which, as its very name suggests, can only be granted for the products, which come from Japan. In addition, there is an information on the origin of each product on its packaging.

Are Moya matcha and leaf teas tested for the presence of pesticides, heavy metals and radioactive elements?

Yes, they are – each and every lot is tested according to such criteria. Moya’s products are therefore entirely safe to consume.

Is it normal that matcha tastes like fish to me?

The first try of matcha powder might actually remind of the taste of fish or algae. It is so due to the characteristic umami taste. However, along with frequent consumption such aftertaste disappears, for the taste buds get used to the intense umami flavour. A good solution for the matcha beginners could be the purchase of Matcha Premium, as it is our sweetest and most subtle matcha grade. Another helpful practice is adding some plant-based milk to the matcha drink.

How do certain matcha grades differ from each other?

At Moya Matcha, we offer 4 different matcha grades: Premium, Traditional, Daily, and Culinary. Individual grades differ from each other in the aspect of flavour, colour, and recommended usage.

Here you will find more information on each specific grade:

STORING MATCHA

How to store matcha and Moya leaf teas?

Matcha is particularly sensitive to sunlight and high temperatures, which may make it lose a its valuable properties. Matcha should be stored in a carefully sealed packaging, in a dark, cool place (e.g. in a refrigerator). It is most beneficial to store our matcha in an original packaging. Our leaf teas should also be stored in a cool, dark place.

How long can matcha and leaf teas remain open?

It is best and most delicious to consume matcha within the first 3 months of opening the package. Leaf teas remain fresh and tasty for a longer period of time. They will not change their flavour and aroma even after a year of opening. The expiration date of each of our products is given on its packaging.

Can I consume matcha or leaf tea after its expiry date?

We recommend matcha and leaf tea consumption within max 2 years of opening, as after such time they may lose their colour, flavour, and other properties.

Matcha powder has lost its colour – can I still consume it?

Yes, however it may denote that matcha has been stored in an improper way and it has also lost its health properties.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

 

Does matcha contain any gluten or lactose?

No, it does not – matcha is an entirely plant-based, and hence gluten- and lactose-free product.

Is it safe for pregnant women and children to consume matcha?

During pregnancy, it is required to limit the caffeine intake, which is why we recommend to consume max 1 portion of matcha a day, when pregnant. However, we offer an amazing replacement for matcha in the form of green leaf teas – kukicha and hojicha – which only contain trace amounts of caffeine and are safe to consume during pregnancy. Matcha should not be consumed by children under 12 years of age due to the presence of caffeine.

How much matcha per day am I allowed to consume?

In case of people weighing under 80kg, the amount of daily matcha consumption should not exceed 5g per day, which equals around 3 grand portions of matcha drink. People weighing above 80kg are allowed to consume slightly larger amounts.

Is it safe for people with high blood pressure to consume matcha?

We recommended you to consult the case with a doctor. You could also try our kukicha and hojicha – leaf teas naturally low in caffeine.

Is it safe for people with diabetes to consume matcha?

The elements contained within matcha powder regulate the blood sugar level. However, it is recommended to consult the case with a doctor in case of any doubts.

SHIPPING

When will I receive my order?

In Poland, we send the orders within 24 hours since the payment for the order. In case of a delivery by a courier, you will receive your order within the upcoming 2 working days, and in case of the shipment via pick-up station – within 3 working days. The exact terms of delivery are described under the <link.>

How much does the shipping cost?

You will find the shipping price list under the link

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