Good quality matcha is known for its vibrant green colour, smooth umami taste, as well as its health benefits. However, if it’s stored incorrectly, even the highest-quality ceremonial-grade matcha can quickly turn dull and bitter.
So how can we prevent matcha to lose its freshness?
In this article, we’ll explore the four biggest enemies of matcha: light, air, heat, and time, and what you can do to protect your matcha from them.
Why Does Matcha Degrade Faster Than Regular Green Tea?
Matcha is made by grinding steamed green tea leaves, also called tencha into an ultra-fine powder. This process increases the tea’s surface area dramatically.
You can think of it like this: A whole apple stays fresh for days, but once you cut it, the individual slices will brown very quickly. The same thing happens to matcha. Because it’s already powdered, it’s much more exposed to air, light, and moisture.
This makes matcha more delicate and more sensitive to its environment.
The 4 Enemies of Matcha: What Ruins Freshness and Flavour
1. Light:
Matcha gains its vibrant green colour by shading the plants from the sun before the harvest. This causes the tea plants to create more natural chlorophyll and is also what makes matcha so rich in antioxidents.
So when matcha is exposed to sunlight, it starts to lose its colour and natural health benefits. When matcha is exposed to light for too long, it can:
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Lose its vibrant green shade
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Turn yellowish or dull
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Develop a bitter aftertaste
That’s why matcha should never be stored in clear glass jars or transparent bags.
2. Air:
When food comes into contact with air or oxygen, it starts a process called oxidation. As mentioned before, matcha a super-finely ground powder, which increases the surface area that can come into contact with air and therefore is particularly prone to oxidation.
Every time you open your container, oxygen enters and over time, this gradually degrades the powder. That's why it's important to always seal your matcha carefully in an air-tight container.
3. Heat:
Storing matcha at room temperature, especially in summer or in hot climates can significantly shorten its lifespan. Warmer temperatures faciliate oxidation, therefore it's always advised to store matcha in a cool dry place, like inside the fridge once it has been opened.
4. Time:
No matter how well you store matcha, matcha will lose its flavour and health benefits slowly over time. Matcha is safe to consume within the indicated expiry date on the packaging but it is generally recommended to consume it within 1-3 months of opening it to benefit from the flavour while it's at its peak.
Some people might want to enjoy their high quality matcha with moderation, so that it lasts longer but it should actually be enjoyed while still vibrant and fresh.
How to Store Matcha Properly: Best Practices
Use the Right Container
Always store matcha in an airtight, opaque container.
The best options include:
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Metal tins with tight lids
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High-quality resealable bags
Avoid:
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Glass jars
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Thin plastic bags
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Paper packaging
If you use a ziplock-style bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Store Matcha in a Cool Place (Preferably the Fridge)
Once you have opened your matcha bag or tin, it's best to store it in a cool and dry place, like the fridge. Over time, this will make a big difference and preserve the colour and flavour of your matcha.
If you store matcha in the fridge:
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Keep it tightly sealed
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Let it reach room temperature before opening to prevent condensation
If refrigeration isn’t possible, choose the coolest, darkest place in your home.
Consume Matcha Within 1-3 Months of Opening
For the best experience, matcha should ideally be consumed within 1-3 months after opening.
During this period, it offers:
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Optimal flavor
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Strong umami
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Smooth texture
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Maximum health benefits
After three months, matcha is still drinkable, but it will start to lose its antioxidant properties, turn dull and might start tasting bitter.
Enjoy Your Matcha While It's Fresh
Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, let every day be a little special with a fresh cup of matcha.
Share a cup with friends, family, or loved ones and create little memories along the way. After all, matcha tastes even better when it’s shared.