Matcha Starter Kit

Ceremonial grade uses the youngest first-flush leaves, which are naturally sweeter and lower in bitterness. They are intended to be drunk with water alone, whisked in the traditional way. Culinary grade uses later-harvest leaves, more robust in flavour and better suited to baking or lattes, where the matcha competes with other ingredients. Our ceremonial matcha can be used for lattes, but the reverse is rarely advisable.

A standard 1–2 g serve of iki Matcha contains approximately 35–70 mg of caffeine, roughly half that of a standard espresso. However, because matcha also contains L-theanine, the effect is qualitatively different: a calm, sustained alertness rather than a stimulant spike. Most people report no jitteriness and no crash.

A traditional bamboo chasen (whisk) produces the finest, most stable foam and is the correct tool for ceremonial preparation. An electric frother works as a practical alternative and produces good results. A blender is suitable for smoothies but not for traditional preparation. We do not recommend stirring with a spoon it leaves the powder insufficiently incorporated.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light, ideally in the refrigerator once opened. Our bags are nitrogen-flushed and resealable to preserve freshness. Unopened: up to 12 months. Once opened: best within 4–6 weeks for peak flavour, though it remains safe to consume beyond that. Do not freeze.

Yes, our matcha powder has undergone third-party laboratory testing for microbial contamination, heavy metals (including lead and arsenic), and pesticide residues.