Matcha
Other names: Matcha green tea
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Matcha, also known as Matcha green tea, is a unique Japanese beverage made from finely ground green tea leaves. It is particularly special because of its cultivation method - a few weeks before harvesting, the tea plantations are covered to limit the sunlight hitting the leaves. This leads to a more intensive production of chlorophyll and a consequent increase in the quality and quantity of valuable substances in the tea. The resulting matcha powder has a distinctive green colour, a unique flavour and a very rich nutritional profile.
The popularity of matcha tea is also growing outside Japan and is now part of many culinary creations around the world. It is used not only as a beverage, but also as an ingredient in many dishes and drinks. Matcha is increasingly being added to smoothies, desserts, cakes, sweets and even savoury dishes for a specific flavour and subtle green colour. In addition, various sweets such as chocolates and ice cream are also made from matcha. In the lucular world, matcha also has its place, being a popular ingredient in cocktails and other alcoholic drinks, where it adds an exotic touch. There are also special matcha lattes, which is a milk drink with the addition of matcha tea.