Does Matcha Have Caffeine: Guide to Switching to Matcha

Does matcha have caffeine?

Matcha is one of our most popular teas and it's having a big moment. TikTok influencers are singing its praises and it’s packed on the shelves of local health food shops. And it might be the way to painlessly break your coffee addiction. That magical combination of lower levels of caffeine and the creamy latte-goodness of matcha makes it the ideal swap for coffee. Matcha is loved for its benefits – antioxidants, L-theanine, and low caffeine. But what keeps everyone returning for matcha is its smooth powder form that easily is whisked up into a latte at home or at your local cafe.

An introduction to matcha

Matcha has been used as part of the Japanese tea ceremony since the 12th century. Our ceremonial matcha is grown in the Shizuoka prefecture on Japan’s Pacific Ocean coast and is grown in covered, shaded conditions for the last 3 weeks of growth before picking.

Does matcha have caffeine? Matcha caffeine vs coffee

Matcha naturally contains both caffeine and a compound called L-theanine. In short, L-theanine has a calming effect so it balances the stimulatory effects of caffeine. It also works to slow down caffeine absorption and to steady and sustain energy levels without the jittery feeling. Coffee is absorbed more quickly. This might cause the all-to-familiar 'coffee rush' – which involves an initial boost in energy and the inevitable crash a few hours later.

Three tips for switching to matcha

Start with one swap.

Replace a single coffee with matcha, the afternoon one tends to work well. T2 CRM Specialist Issy did exactly that: "I wanted to drink less caffeine, especially in the afternoons. So I started by swapping my post-lunch coffee with a matcha."

Brew it your way.

Matcha is more versatile than it first appears. Try it hot, iced, or as a latte with oat or vanilla soy milk. The grassy, umami notes take well to sweetness, honey, flavoured syrup, or a vanilla base all work.

Issy's order: "I whisk up a matcha shot and serve it with vanilla soy milk in a latte. The sweet vanilla soy milk gives me an extra boost of energy on top of the matcha."

Treat it as a ritual.

Part of what coffee gives us isn't just caffeine, it's the pause. Whisking matcha into a smooth, frothy paste is its own version of that. Take the time. Pick your favourite mug. It makes a difference.