Matcha Tea Grades: How to Pick the Right Grade

You might have noticed that bright green whirl in a latte, or perhaps overheard someone exclaiming about "ceremonial grade matcha" on their morning commute. But what is it, exactly? And why are there so many matcha tea grades?

If you're in the tea industry, a wellness company, a food company, or simply an avid tea enthusiast, being able to tell ceremonial matcha from culinary grade matcha can indeed save you time, money, and an awful lot of confusion.

So how do you pick the proper matcha for what you're cooking—or selling?

Here in this guide, we're going to discuss the various grades of matcha, matcha certifications, advice for sourcing matcha, and which grades are suitable for foodservice or retail.

If you're considering organic matcha sourcing or buying matcha powder in bulk, you're covered. This is your reference to get to know matcha—green tea powder, directly from the tea plant, processed in a fashion that makes sense.

What Is Matcha?

Matcha is a type of finely ground green tea powder made from specially grown and processed Camellia sinensis leaves. Unlike regular green tea, where the leaves are steeped in water and then discarded, matcha is consumed whole, meaning you ingest the entire leaf and all its nutrients.

Matcha green tea powder is made by grinding up the youngest tea leaves into a fine, vibrant green powder. That’s why it’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

The tea plant is shaded for a few weeks prior to harvesting. Why? That little secret stimulates chlorophyll, which provides matcha's deep green color and silky texture. Only the most green leaves from the first and second harvests qualify for high grade matcha.

Various grades of matcha offer various moods. Ceremonial grade matcha is light, subtle in flavor—it's the kind that's used in authentic Japanese tea ceremonies. And culinary grade matcha? That's slightly more robust, ideal for matcha lattes, baking, or other matcha products such as energy bars or smoothies. It's all a matter of using the correct matcha for the task.

Health Benefits of Matcha

Curious why matcha tea is in everything these days—from your smoothie of choice to that fancy mask? It's not just a fad. Matcha green tea powder actually provides a bunch of health benefits beyond its bright green aura.

Here's why everyone can't get enough of it:

Loaded with Antioxidants

Matcha contains a potent antioxidant named EGCG (don't worry about remembering the name, just know that it is super good for you). It makes your body resistant to inflammation and aids your immune system.

Smooth Energy without the Crash

Matcha contains just the right amount of caffeine to perk you up—but with L-theanine, which keeps you calm and centered. It's a kind of energy that doesn't get you revved up and wired or worse, drained, like coffee sometimes does.

Natural Detox Boost

Thanks to the unique shading process applied prior to harvest, matcha winds up with additional chlorophyll. That's what's responsible for its brilliant green color and its mild detoxing properties.

Supports Mood and Metabolism

Individuals who sip ceremonial grade matcha report that it makes them feel more centered and alert. Culinary grade matcha, conversely, is perfect for incorporating into health-conscious meals and desserts.

No matter if you're beginning your day with a matcha latte or baking it into your snack, this small green powder carries more impact than you'd expect.

Global Matcha Market Trends

The matcha trend 2025 is larger than ever, and it's no longer just for tea enthusiasts. Health brands, food startups, and even high-end hotels are getting involved. Why? Because matcha ticks a lot of boxes: clean, functional, and story-rich.

Here's what's currently going on:

• Clean-label: Customers are demanding ingredients they can pronounce. That's why organic ceremonial matcha is fast becoming a go-to in premium beverages and wellness blends.
• Culinary matcha is going wholesale: Food manufacturers are purchasing culinary matcha for anything from energy bites to green baked goods. This is because matcha for food manufacturers is becoming a must-have ingredient across product lines.
• Cultural vibes are in: More consumers seek real experiences, and traditional tea ceremonies are on trend—particularly in tourism. That translates to more sellers supplying ceremonial matcha for occasions or upscale cafés.
• Japan remains at the top: Kyoto is still the benchmark for quality, but other nations now apply advanced matcha manufacturing methods as well.

With B2B sourcing platforms, accessing Japanese matcha wholesale markets has never been simpler. From traceability to good matcha supply chains, the matcha tea market is expanding across the globe—and in a big way.

What Is Ceremonial Grade Matcha?

Ceremonial Grade Matcha is the highest quality of matcha green tea powder, traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies. It is prized for its vibrant color, smooth texture, delicate flavor, and minimal bitterness.

Here's why it's special:

• Flavor: Mellow, smooth, and rich with umami. No bitterness here.
• Color: That deep, rich green? It's a guarantee of freshness and quality.
• Texture: Extremely fine and smooth—no gritty sensation whatsoever.
• Best for: Whisking with boiling water and sipping straight up. No need to mix it with anything.

How is Ceremonial Grade Matcha Made?

Well, it begins way before the leaves are even harvested. The tea plants are shaded, allowing them to produce softer leaves full of chlorophyll. Only the youngest, first-harvest leaves are hand-harvested. The stems and veins are then removed with care to maintain smoothness. Then the leaves are stone-ground into a fine powder. That's what becomes ceremonial matcha—pure, rich, and ready to drink as is.

What Is Culinary Grade Matcha?

Culinary Grade Matcha is a lower grade of matcha green tea powder specifically made for cooking and mixing with other ingredients—rather than drinking it straight like ceremonial matcha.

So what's the difference?

• Flavor: Slightly more robust, a bit bitter, and has that unmistakable grassy kick
• Color: Typically lighter or less vibrant green compared to ceremonial matcha
• Texture: Evenly fine enough for recipes, although it does get gritty sometimes
• Ideal for: Smoothies, matcha lattes, ice cream, baked goods—you name it

How is Culinary Grade Matcha Made?

Unlike ceremonial grade matcha, this one is made from leaves that are harvested later in the season. They are slightly older and harder, so the powder has a richer flavor. That is just ideal for cooking, as you want the matcha to dominate. And the process is less stressful, so it's cheaper. Perfect for food companies, bakeries, or anyone purchasing culinary matcha in bulk.

What Is Premium (Daily) Grade Matcha?

Premium or Daily Grade Matcha (sometimes called Everyday Matcha) is a middle-tier matcha that balances quality and affordability. It’s better than culinary grade but not quite as refined as ceremonial grade—making it ideal for daily drinking, especially in lattes, smoothies, or iced teas.

Its key characteristics:

• Flavor: Smooth, slightly grassy, and less bitter than culinary grade
• Color: Bright green—more vibrant than culinary, but not as vivid as ceremonial
• Texture: Finely ground and whiskable, creating a nice froth without clumps
• Ideal for: Matcha lattes, iced matcha, smoothies, and casual sipping with just water

Matcha Certifications

When we're talking about organic ceremonial matcha or culinary matcha in bulk, certifications are a big deal. Matcha tea grades for buyers come with various labels that help ensure trust and transparency.

These labels are not optional. They let you know where your matcha is from, how it was grown, and if it passes the tests you're interested in. Here are some you'll probably encounter:

• JAS Organic – This one comes from Japan. It indicates that the matcha was cultivated without artificial pesticides and fertilizers according to Japanese Agricultural Standards.
• USDA Organic – When purchasing or selling in the U.S., this mark is most important. It ensures the product is certified organic from farm to store.
• EU Organic – Bound for Europe? This stamp indicates your matcha meets all the criteria for organic products according to European law.
• Non-GMO & Fair Trade – These labels indicate that your matcha is not genetically modified and that the individuals who made it were fairly treated.
• Halal & Kosher – Do you want your matcha to be appealing to larger markets? These certifications ensure it's within particular dietary and religious restrictions.

As a health-conscious consumer or as someone who sources wholesale matcha for your company, these certifications allow you to trust what you're purchasing. Consider them the green flags amidst a sea of green powder.

Ceremonial vs. Culinary Grade Matcha

Don't know which matcha to use? You're not alone. The choice between ceremonial grade matcha and culinary grade matcha is determined based on when the leaves are harvested, how they're processed, and what you will be using them for.

Ceremonial Grade Matcha

If you're consuming your matcha straight—just water and whisk—this is the one. It's crafted using the first pick and the youngest, most delicate leaves. The taste is smooth, full of umami, and slightly sweet. No bitterness at all.

• Harvest: First harvest
• Leaf type: Young, delicate leaves
• Flavor: Smooth, mellow, sweet
• Color: Deep, rich green
• Use it for: Traditional tea ceremonies, enjoying on its own
• Price range: On the higher side—due to quality

Culinary Grade Matcha

Wanting to add matcha to a smoothie or mix it into muffins? Look for culinary grade matcha. It's produced from older leaves, usually the second or third harvest. That provides a more intense flavor that can hold its own when blended into foods and beverages.

• Harvest: Later in the season (second or third)
• Leaf type: Older, stronger leaves
• Flavor: Strong, grassy, slightly bitter
• Color: Lighter or duller green
• Use it for: Cooking, baking, matcha lattes, smoothies
• Price range: More affordable for everyday use

Quick Tip:

If you’re drinking it plain, stick with ceremonial matcha for the smoothest experience. But if you’re making recipes, culinary matcha is your best bet—it won’t break the bank and still packs all the benefits.

How to Match Grade with Application

Choosing the appropriate matcha isn't all about flavor, it's about what you are intending to do with it. So how do you align the grade of matcha to your business requirements?

For Private Label Beverages

If you’re creating private label health drinks or wellness formulations, you’ll want to go for premium matcha wholesale or ceremonial grade matcha powder. Why? Because your customers expect that smooth, vibrant green look and a delicious taste. After all, the quality of your matcha says a lot about your brand’s health benefits and overall experience. Don’t settle for anything less than something that feels special.

For Functional Food and Nutraceuticals

When it comes to bars, powdered supplements, or other functional foods, culinary grade matcha is a smart pick. It’s still packed with nutrients but blends really well with other ingredients. Plus, it won’t break the budget. So if you’re mixing matcha into formulas that focus on wellness benefits, culinary grade offers the right balance between nutrition and cost.

For Foodservice Channels (Cafés, Chains, and More)

Operating a chain or a café? Then culinary grade matcha is your daily workhorse. It's ideal for creating matcha lattes, iced beverages, and flavored drinks that patrons enjoy. For bigger chains that require consistency and bulk, daily grade matcha provides your recipes with the same flavor every time without breaking the bank.

For Health & Wellness Brands

If transparency and organic quality are what your brand is all about, then organic ceremonial matcha with certifications is a necessity. People who are purchasing from you directly want to know where their matcha originates, how it's processed, and whether or not it's organic. Therefore, displaying those certifications and sharing the story behind your matcha instills trust, and that's invaluable.

MOQ for Matcha Powder

Considering MOQ for matcha powder wholesale? Here's a brief rundown to assist you:

• Ceremonial grade matcha: MOQ can go as low as 1kg, ideal for retailers who desire premium powder. Ceremonial matcha for retailers is perfect for high-end shelves and specialty stores.
• Culinary matcha wholesale: Typically begins around 5 to 20kg, perfect for food and beverage applications.
• B2B matcha powder for manufacturing: Typically involves bigger orders, starting from 100kg and above.

Bulk purchasing typically rewards you with higher price levels, particularly for high-end matcha wholesale. Therefore, coordinating your order quantity to your company requirements can cost you less while yielding the optimal quality!

Consumer Trends Influencing Matcha Grade Demand

A number of changes are driving demand for higher grade and more varied matcha products:

Plant-Based and Clean Eating Revolution

Increasingly, consumers are turning to plant-based and clean eating lifestyles. This trend increases demand for high-quality organic matcha powder that seamlessly integrates into health-focused diets and wellness regimens, driving higher-end matcha to consumer popularity.

Increased Focus on Sustainability

Sustainability is a huge thing now. Consumers desire matcha that is not just good for them but also good for the world. This creates demand for certified organic and ethically produced matcha, pushing suppliers to be sustainable and transparent.

Love for Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremonies

Traditional Japanese tea ceremonies are becoming increasingly popular globally. Individuals enjoy the ritual and excellence of ceremonial grade matcha, which provides a true experience with its velvety flavor, bright color, and rich cultural history.

Matcha Venturing into New Beverages

Matcha is no longer just for tea. It's popping up in protein shakes, cocktails, and other fashionable beverages. Culinary grade matcha is best utilized here, due to its strong flavor and potential for mixing with various ingredients.

Daily Matcha for Home Use

Increasing numbers of individuals are incorporating matcha into their diets at home. Every day grade matcha is an excellent base to strike a balance between quality andfony to enjoy the silky, flavorful matcha experience without having to spend a lot of money.

5 Best White Label & Private Label Matcha Suppliers

1. RICHING MATCHA – China

Riching Matcha is a reliable supplier providing top-quality EU and USDA Organic matcha powder. Whether you need culinary grade, premium, or ceremonial grade matcha, they have you covered. Additionally, they provide specialty powders such as Hojicha and Genmaicha — ideal for private label matcha brands looking for variety.

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2. K.V.N. IMPORT EXPORT (1991) CO., LTD. – Thailand

While mostly famous for coffee, Aroma Thailand (a K.V.N. company) also services private label beverage suppliers. Their long history in food and beverage set them up as a good option if you would like to add specialty drinks to your product offerings in addition to matcha.

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3. LILY'S TEA LTD – Ireland

Lily's Tea provides premium organic matcha and loose-leaf teas from the best tea-producing areas of China. They're ideal for companies seeking private label matcha with a genuine spin. They even provide sustainable packaging such as biodegradable tea pyramids, a value-add for clean-label brands.

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4. VASCO INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. – Japan

Vasco International is a Japanese food ingredient company that offers superior matcha powder. They maintain strict quality and safety requirements, rendering them an excellent choice for private label matcha and culinary-grade powders to enrich your dishes.

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5. AIYA EUROPE GMBH – Germany

AIYA Europe is a leader and innovator in Japanese matcha. Having 135 years of tea experience, they provide high-quality matcha and specialty teas. Their private label options are designed for wholesale and retail companies seeking exceptional matcha products that are unique.

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