Kind to your body and the planet

Matcha has gained worldwide recognition as a symbol for health and wellbeing. Whether you are new to matcha or already a matcha lover, you have an important decision to make; should you choose organic or non-organic matcha? Does organic matcha really make a difference for your health and the environment? And does it impact the flavour, colour or even some of the health benefits matcha is linked to?

Pesticides

Organic matcha reflects a more conscious approach to agriculture. One that focuses on preserving mother earth’s resources and prioritizing your wellbeing. It is made without using synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers. This practice fosters a natural and harmonious environment that allows the tea plants to thrive in balance with the ecosystem. Organic tea farms rely on traditional, sustainable practices such as crop rotation, natural fertilizers, and companion planting to promote healthier soil and stronger plants over time.

Non-organic matcha, on the other hand, is often produced with the help of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This allows for more consistent harvests and greater yields but can leave traces of chemical residues in the matcha powder, which can be toxic for your body. Many commercial farms prioritize efficiency over sustainability and sacrifice some of the holistic aspects valued in traditional matcha production.

Nutrients

Nutrient-wise, there is no scientific evidence suggesting that non-organic matcha has lower nutrient levels than organic matcha. Some articles mention that organic matcha can carry more antioxidants, hence have more benefits for your body, but there is no direct research that compares the nutrient values between the two different powders.

When comparing organic to non-organic farming in general, the debate around nutrient retention is ongoing. Research suggests that organic farming practices, which avoid synthetic chemicals and prioritize soil health, can sometimes enhance the nutrient profile of crops. A comprehensive review by Montgomery and Biklé (2021) highlighted that organic crops may contain more micronutrients and antioxidants, yet the debate remains whether these differences are substantial enough to impact human health meaningfully.

Flavour Profile

One characteristic that really sets organic matcha apart from non-organic is the flavour. Organic matcha has a more complex and subtle flavour profile, with a natural sweetness and smooth umami finish. This is both because organic farming practices encourage slower plant growth and because of the absence of chemical residues, which allows the green tea leaves to develop a richer, deeper, and slightly sweeter flavour. Whereas non-organic matcha can have a more astringent taste.

The Verdict

With that said, the purity and richness of organic matcha can create the most refined experience for the mindful tea drinker and matcha enthusiast. Those seeking the most natural option, organic matcha offers peace of mind when it comes to personal health and that of the planet. With organic farming, you reduce the risk of ingesting pesticide residues and support practices that promote soil health and biodiversity. Organic matcha is considered a cleaner, more holistic product, making it not only a better choice for the planet but also a mindful commitment to your own wellbeing.

Keep in mind that this makes organic matcha a more expensive option compared to non-organic matcha, as it is a more delicate practice that yields smaller quantities of the final product.

Whether you choose organic or non-organic matcha, savour the ritual of preparing your matcha, and enjoy the sense of balance, calm, and energy it brings to your day.

Montgomery, D. and Biklé, A. (2021). “Soil Health and Nutrient Density: Beyond Organic vs. Conventional Farming”. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 5, 699147. Click here to go to the article.