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New scientific study reveals: Each grade of matcha has its own unique benefits
New scientific study reveals: Each grade of matcha has its own unique benefits
- Published
- 28. 07. 2026
- Italian scientists from the Sapienza University of Rome published an interesting study in May 2025 that for the first time compared the chemical composition of ceremonial, standard, and food-grade matcha in detail. The results show that each grade has its own unique strengths – it's not just about price, but about different benefits.
Ceremonial matcha: master of relaxation and concentration
The highest ceremonial grade contains the most L-theanine, an amino acid that, when combined with caffeine, promotes calm attention without jitters. This makes ceremonial matcha an ideal choice for meditation, mental work, or anytime you need focused energy without the coffee jitters. The high chlorophyll content gives it its bright green color and mild, sweet flavor.
Culinary matcha: antioxidant power
Interestingly, food-grade matcha made from riper leaves contains more catechins and flavonoids—the same compounds that make green tea so famous for its antioxidant benefits. If you’re looking primarily for immune support and cell protection, food-grade matcha for smoothies or baking will provide you with a strong dose of these protective compounds.
Which matcha is the "right" one?
It depends on your needs. Want to enjoy a traditional tea ceremony with maximum relaxation? Go for the ceremonial one. Are you making a matcha latte or baking? Food grade will give you full antioxidant power at a more reasonable price.
The study clearly shows: there is no „better“ or „worse“ matcha – each has its place in the lives of green tea lovers.
Source:
TONIOLO, Chiara, Adriano PATRIARCA, Daniela DE VITA, Luca SANTI a Fabio SCIUBBA. A Comparative Multianalytical Approach to the Characterization of Different Grades of Matcha Tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze). Plants [online]. 2025, 14(11), 1631 [cit. 2026-07-15]. ISSN 2223-7747. Dostupné z: https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14111631