Hold your breath, matcha lovers, there’s a global matcha shortage. With the exponential rise in popularity of matcha in recent years, the Japanese green tea powder is becoming scarce. What does this mean for businesses and matcha enthusiasts? As demand for matcha continues to skyrocket while supply dwindles, coffee shops across the U.S. and across the globe are growing concerned about the beloved drink’s longevity on their menus.
What Does This Mean for Matcha Drinkers in the Future?
According to The Japan Times, first flush matcha, the first harvest tea leaves that produce matcha, has become a scarce source. First flush matcha is traditionally used once a year for tea ceremonies, but with the rise in westernization of matcha, the green tea powder has become common to use daily. Because these first flush tea leaves are harvested only once a year, their supply is already limited, even more so now that demand for second and third flush matcha has soared through the roof as well.
Japanese tea companies Ippodo and Marukyu Koyamaen, known for supplying matcha, have announced purchasing limits on the green tea powder for the first time. While the spring harvest of tea leaves is expected to provide a short-term relief for the shortage issues, there are still concerns for the future production and supply of matcha.
What Will Coffee Culture Look Like Without Matcha?
The global matcha shortage will not only put a strain on producers of the powder but on local businesses as well. Your favorite matcha-based drinks might not be as readily available at nearby coffee shops. Due to social media popularity, the powder is even flying off the shelves at grocery stores.
If your go-to spots for matcha do have access to the powder, prices will most likely increase, according to a Business Insider interview with a locally owned Australian tea shop. With low quantities and matcha fanatics racing to get hold of the green drink, coffee culture will definitely take a hit from this global shortage.
A Solution in the Meantime: Some Alternatives
So, what can matcha lovers do while this global shortage continues? Here are a few alternative drinks to try out if your favorite coffee shop is experiencing a low supply of matcha.
Mulberry Matcha
Made from 100% Japanese mulberry leaves, mulberry matcha may be a good option for you! This caffeine-free alternative shares a similar herb-like flavor to traditional matcha and is also thought to offer health benefits. Plus, mulberry matcha is green in color, so you won’t notice much of a difference!
Chai Tea
Though chai tea lattes aren’t exactly green, and they don’t have that classic matcha flavor, they can become another tasty choice for you. Originating from South Asia, chai tea is a blend of black tea leaves, milk, and spices that typically include cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. The aroma of this latte won’t disappoint!
Dirty Chai
If black tea isn’t going to cut it for you in terms of caffeine, a dirty chai may work better. Dirty chai lattes offer a different twist on original chai tea, adding in a shot or two of espresso. Bonus points if you attempt to make it at home!
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