Natural caffeine sources are gaining popularity as consumers look for alternatives to traditional coffee and energy drinks. Matcha and caffeine-rich botanicals are emerging as popular choices, offering a steadier energy boost and a calmer experience. From matcha to plant-based ingredients, the trend reflects growing interest in natural energy sources and mindful consumption.


Natural caffeine sources gain popularity; matcha & botanicals offer calm energy

As matcha tea gains more and more popularity in India, Assam tea estate has launched the country’s first matcha commercial production, stepping into a global market long dominated by Japan. Chota Tingrai Tea Estate in Tinsukia made a remarkable milestone, selling its first batch at the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre on Friday (Jul 3).The debut batch made its way to the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre during Sale 27, where Lot No. 7001 was sold for Rs 3,000 through J Thomas &amp; Co Pvt Ltd. The buyer, Guwahati-based Sheosons Chai Co, marked the first commercial handshake for India’s entry into the world of matcha.For Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the development signals more than just a new product and reflects an evolution of Assam’s tea legacy. He described it as a milestone that strengthens the state’s global tea identity while deepening India’s collaboration with Japan in specialised agricultural expertise.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Your favourite Matcha brew, will now be produced in Assam. Furthering our glorious tea legacy, Assam becomes the first State in India to commercially produce Matcha tea at the Chota Tingrai Tea Estate in Tinsukia. This diversification to the viral drink will help strengthen… <a href="https://t.co/Yyfigliorw">pic.twitter.com/Yyfigliorw</a>&mdash; Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) <a href="https://x.com/himantabiswa/status/2072990604158706170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Behind the leaves lies nearly a decade of preparation. Chota Tingrai worked closely with Japanese tea masters, agronomists, and machinery experts to recreate the precision-driven art of matcha production. This collaboration eventually led to the installation of a fully automated Japanese-style processing unit within the estate itself.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-japan-summit-how-global-energy-shocks-are-bringing-india-and-japan-closer-iran-russia-ukraine-1783005038442">India-Japan Summit: How global energy shocks are bringing India and Japan closer</a><h2>What is matcha?</h2>Originating in Japan, matcha is a vibrant green tea ground into fine powder. Unlike regular teas, matcha is not prepared by steeping tea leaves. Instead, it is whisked directly into water and consumed. The tea has a rich, earthy flavour with a smooth umami depth and a gentle caffeine lift.In Japan, the tea has been used for centuries in traditional ceremonies. In recent years, it has gained popularity across the world, being used in drinks, desserts, and health products. Matcha offers many health benefits as it is rich in antioxidants and is considered a “superfood”.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inside-the-500-000-mobility-target-why-japan-wants-50-000-indian-workers-japan-workers-shortage-1783077430875">Inside the 500,000 mobility target: Why Japan wants 50,000 Indian workers</a><h2>What this means for India</h2>Matcha, prized for its vibrant green hue and health appeal, has seen surging demand worldwide, often outpacing supply from traditional producers. Assam’s entry into this niche offers a timely alternative for global buyers and opens new doors for India’s speciality tea exports.Known globally for its bold black teas, Assam is now branching into a more delicate and premium segment. Estate officials say the goal is to blend tradition with innovation, bringing a globally trending beverage onto Indian soil without losing its authenticity.With this launch, Chota Tingrai hasn’t just produced a new tea but has poured Assam’s heritage into a new cup, where tradition meets reinvention in a vivid green swirl.Watch | Rainiest place on Earth runs dry: Meghalaya records shocking 74% rainfall deficit<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rainiest-place-on-earth-runs-dry-meghalaya-records-shocking-74-rainfall-deficit-1783100517113/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/rainiest-place-on-earth-runs-dry-meghalaya-records-shocking-74-rainfall-deficit-1783100517113/embed</a>

Assam’s Chota Tingrai Tea Estate launched India’s first commercial matcha, selling its debut batch in Guwahati and marking the country’s entry into the global matcha market.

As matcha tea gains more and more popularity in India, Assam tea estate has launched the country’s first matcha commercial production, stepping into a global market long dominated by Japan. Chota Tingrai Tea Estate in Tinsukia made a remarkable milestone, selling its first batch at the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre on Friday (Jul 3). The debut batch made its way to the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre during Sale 27, where Lot No. 7001 was sold for Rs 3,000 through J Thomas & Co Pvt Ltd. The buyer, Guwahati-based Sheosons Chai Co, marked the first commercial handshake for India’s entry into the world of matcha. For Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the development signals more than just a new product and reflects an evolution of Assam’s tea legacy. He described it as a milestone that strengthens the state’s global tea identity while deepening India’s collaboration with Japan in specialised agricultural expertise.

Assam’s Chota Tingrai Tea Estate launched India’s first commercial matcha, selling its debut batch in Guwahati and marking the country’s entry into the global matcha market.

Assam brews India’s bold entry into global matcha market – All about the popular tea

For centuries, tea has been a beloved beverage across Asia and beyond. Among the most popular varieties are green tea and matcha, both celebrated for their refreshing taste and health benefits. While they come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, their cultivation, preparation, and nutritional values are different. Let’s explore what sets these two teas apart.&nbsp;<h2>What is green tea?</h2>Green tea is one of the oldest and most widely consumed teas. With origins in China, it dates to thousands of years. Today, it is cultivated across Asia, including Japan, Vietnam, and Korea. The leaves are either pan-fired, as is common in China, or steamed, as in Japan, to stop oxidation and preserve their bright green colour. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Preparation and benefits</h2>Also Read: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/not-fancy-yet-simple-sanya-malhotra-shares-the-secret-dish-that-fuels-her-workout-routine-1757836752071">Not fancy yet simple! Sanya Malhotra shares the secret dish that fuels her workout routine</a>&nbsp;Once processed, the leaves are infused in hot water to create a refreshing beverage with a flavour profile that can range from grassy and vegetal to nutty or floral, depending on the variety. Green tea contains moderate amounts of caffeine, typically between 30 to 40 milligrams per cup and is well known for its antioxidants, which support metabolism, immunity, and overall well-being.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/r-madhavan-s-weight-loss-was-not-due-to-gym-but-for-this-reason-1757676965669">R Madhavan's guide to No-Gym weight loss</a><h2>What is matcha?</h2>Matcha, on the other hand, is a more concentrated form of green tea that originated in Japan. The tea plants are shade-grown for several weeks before harvest, which increases chlorophyll levels, giving the leaves a vivid green hue, while also boosting the amino acid L-theanine. After harvesting, only the finest leaves are selected, de-veined, and stone-ground into a silky powder. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Preparation and benefits</h2>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/benefits-of-makhana-a-humble-superfood-from-bihar-for-your-healthy-snacking-1757668468395">All about makhana; a humble superfood from Bihar for your healthy snacking</a>&nbsp;Unlike regular green tea, which is steeped and then discarded, matcha is whisked directly into hot water, meaning you consume the entire leaf. This makes it richer in antioxidants and significantly higher in caffeine, often reaching 60 to 70 milligrams per serving, nearly double that of green tea. Its flavour is distinct, earthy, creamy, and umami-forward with a touch of sweetness and mild bitterness.&nbsp;<h2>Green tea vs matcha: Which is better for you?</h2>&nbsp;While both teas share health benefits, there are some key differences. Green tea is usually sun-grown and enjoyed for its light, soothing taste, while matcha’s shade-growing method and powdered form create a more intense and nutrient-dense beverage. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/giorgio-armani-dead-thousands-expected-to-pay-respects-to-italian-designer-1757125903436">Giorgio Armani dead: Thousands expected to pay respects to Italian designer</a>&nbsp;Green tea offers a gentler energy boost, making it ideal for daily hydration and relaxation, whereas matcha provides sustained alertness, thanks to its combination of caffeine and L-theanine. The cultural significance also differs, with green tea deeply rooted in Chinese tradition and matcha being an integral part of Japanese tea ceremonies.&nbsp;If you prefer a mild, calming cup of tea that can be enjoyed multiple times a day, green tea is the perfect option. But if you are looking for a drink that delivers a stronger boost of energy, higher antioxidants, and a bold flavour, matcha is the way to go. Both are superfoods in their own way, offering unique experiences that make them valuable additions to any tea lover’s collection. &nbsp;

Loaded with many health benefits green tea and matcha are among the most popular beverages in the world. But do you know which is better for you? Read on to know the difference between them. 

For centuries, tea has been a beloved beverage across Asia and beyond. Among the most popular varieties are green tea and matcha, both celebrated for their refreshing taste and health benefits. While they come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, their cultivation, preparation, and nutritional values are different. Let’s explore what sets these two teas apart. What is green tea? Green tea is one of the oldest and most widely consumed teas. With origins in China, it dates to thousands of years. Today, it is cultivated across Asia, including Japan, Vietnam, and Korea. The leaves are either pan-fired, as is common in China, or steamed, as in Japan, to stop oxidation and preserve their bright green colour. Preparation and benefits Also Read: Not fancy yet simple! Sanya Malhotra shares the secret dish that fuels her workout routine Once processed, the leaves are infused in hot water to create a refreshing beverage with a flavour profile that can range from grassy and vegetal to nutty or floral, depending on the variety. Green tea contains moderate amounts of caffeine, typically between 30 to 40 milligrams per cup and is well known for its antioxidants, which support metabolism, immunity, and overall well-being. Also Read: R Madhavan's guide to No-Gym weight loss What is matcha? Matcha, on the other hand, is a more concentrated form of green tea that originated in Japan. The tea plants are shade-grown for several weeks before harvest, which increases chlorophyll levels, giving the leaves a vivid green hue, while also boosting the amino acid L-theanine. After harvesting, only the finest leaves are selected, de-veined, and stone-ground into a silky powder. Preparation and benefits Also Read: All about makhana; a humble superfood from Bihar for your healthy snacking Unlike regular green tea, which is steeped and then discarded, matcha is whisked directly into hot water, meaning you consume the entire leaf. This makes it richer in antioxidants and significantly higher in caffeine, often reaching 60 to 70 milligrams per serving, nearly double that of green tea. Its flavour is distinct, earthy, creamy, and umami-forward with a touch of sweetness and mild bitterness. Green tea vs matcha: Which is better for you? While both teas share health benefits, there are some key differences. Green tea is usually sun-grown and enjoyed for its light, soothing taste, while matcha’s shade-growing method and powdered form create a more intense and nutrient-dense beverage. Also Read: Giorgio Armani dead: Thousands expected to pay respects to Italian designer Green tea offers a gentler energy boost, making it ideal for daily hydration and relaxation, whereas matcha provides sustained alertness, thanks to its combination of caffeine and L-theanine. The cultural significance also differs, with green tea deeply rooted in Chinese tradition and matcha being an integral part of Japanese tea ceremonies. If you prefer a mild, calming cup of tea that can be enjoyed multiple times a day, green tea is the perfect option. But if you are looking for a drink that delivers a stronger boost of energy, higher antioxidants, and a bold flavour, matcha is the way to go. Both are superfoods in their own way, offering unique experiences that make them valuable additions to any tea lover’s collection.

Loaded with many health benefits green tea and matcha are among the most popular beverages in the world. But do you know which is better for you? Read on to know the difference between them.&nbsp;

Green Tea vs Matcha: Which one would you prefer to brew?; Unpacking benefits, flavour difference and more

The bright green Japanese tea, Matcha is becoming popular all over the world. This tea is found in many regions in Japan like Uji, Nishio and Shizuoka and these regions are known for producing high-quality matcha. The global interest for this tea is also driven by social media, where influencers share matcha-making tips, taste tests and recipes. On TikTok, the hashtag regarding matcha (#MatchaTok) has gathered millions of views. Matcha sales are also rising mainly because now people care more about their health and the wellness trend is becoming more popular.<h2>How matcha is made ?</h2>&nbsp;Making matcha is not at all easy; it takes centuries and has a carefully crafted process. It starts with a special kind of green tea leaf called ‘Tencha,’ which is grown in the shade for several weeks. Keeping these leaves gives matcha its rich and savory-sweet flavor, known as umami. &nbsp; These leaves are then picked, dried, and slowly ground into a fine powder using stone mills. These mills can only produce about 40 grams of powder (1.4 oz) per hour. &nbsp; Recently, matcha producers have been facing many problems. The sudden changes in the temperature level has become one of the main challenge in the production of the crop as unusually high temperatures cause damage to the tea crops.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - 'From one chaiwala to another': Who is Indian-origin man who served tea to PM Modi and UK's Keir Starmer &nbsp; The people of the Kyoto area in Japan, which produces around 25 per cent of the Tencha, are facing poor harvesting problems, and these issues are becoming increasingly common even as the demand for the tea continues to rise. &nbsp;Another challenge in this industry is that Japan’s farming population is getting older and only fewer young people are interested in becoming farmers. This makes it harder for the country to meet the growing global demand.

Increased in online availability and strong marketing efforts through e-commerce platforms are making matcha more accessible to people around the world to discover and try it.

The bright green Japanese tea, Matcha is becoming popular all over the world. This tea is found in many regions in Japan like Uji, Nishio and Shizuoka and these regions are known for producing high-quality matcha. The global interest for this tea is also driven by social media, where influencers share matcha-making tips, taste tests and recipes. On TikTok, the hashtag regarding matcha (#MatchaTok) has gathered millions of views. Matcha sales are also rising mainly because now people care more about their health and the wellness trend is becoming more popular. How matcha is made ? Making matcha is not at all easy; it takes centuries and has a carefully crafted process. It starts with a special kind of green tea leaf called ‘Tencha,’ which is grown in the shade for several weeks. Keeping these leaves gives matcha its rich and savory-sweet flavor, known as umami. These leaves are then picked, dried, and slowly ground into a fine powder using stone mills. These mills can only produce about 40 grams of powder (1.4 oz) per hour. Recently, matcha producers have been facing many problems. The sudden changes in the temperature level has become one of the main challenge in the production of the crop as unusually high temperatures cause damage to the tea crops. Also Read - 'From one chaiwala to another': Who is Indian-origin man who served tea to PM Modi and UK's Keir Starmer The people of the Kyoto area in Japan, which produces around 25 per cent of the Tencha, are facing poor harvesting problems, and these issues are becoming increasingly common even as the demand for the tea continues to rise. Another challenge in this industry is that Japan’s farming population is getting older and only fewer young people are interested in becoming farmers. This makes it harder for the country to meet the growing global demand.

Increased in online availability and strong marketing efforts through e-commerce platforms are making matcha more accessible to people around the world to discover and try it.

World's thirst for green Japanese tea matcha leads to shortage in global supplies

The rise of matcha lattes from a niche beverage to a wellness status symbol is a proud intersection of&nbsp;traditional Japanese tea culture and modern coffee shop culture; social media aesthetics and wellness trends only make it better. Historically speaking, Matcha tea has been a significant part of the Japanese culture because of its health benefits.&nbsp;

<h3 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{544f2739-524b-4811-b8fe-8cfa7b5446c7}{254}" paraid="927545361" >When was Matcha used?&nbsp;</h3>

The powdered green tea was traditionally whisked with hot water to create a frothy, vibrant green beverage consumed in formal settings only. This cultural heritage lent matcha an initial air of sophistication and authenticity that would later contribute to its status appeal.&nbsp;

<h3 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{51476143-702e-4950-8f54-dbb8ead4fbdc}{148}" paraid="101288507" >Cafe culture and Matcha&nbsp;</h3>

The modern evolution&nbsp;of Matcha tea and lattes started in specialty coffee shops, particularly in urban centers like New York, Los Angeles, and London; when Matcha was introduced as a healthy drink available to all. Call it a marketing gimmick or actual health benefit promotion,&nbsp;Matcha is now synonymous with one’s social stature. It's part of a feel-good ritual for many.&nbsp;

<h3 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{04249b31-b628-40ce-b130-0c57441b9497}{158}" paraid="657305460" >Matcha, health and taste&nbsp;</h3>

The initial taste of matcha: fresh and forest-like, can be polarizing. Yet much like coffee drinkers learn to love its bitter bite, matcha's earthy intensity becomes mysteriously compelling over time.&nbsp;Once a niche drink, it is now offered in the most sophisticated food chains.&nbsp;

“I spend around £30 a week,” says luxury watch specialist Marie Dazzoni, according to The Independent. She added, “I just think it tastes&nbsp;really&nbsp;good. It’s great because it’s available almost everywhere. I go to Starbucks at least four times a week.”&nbsp;

The news outlet stated nutritionist Jenna Hope who said, “Matcha is really high in antioxidants. Plus, the caffeine is much more slow-releasing”.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-celebrity-nutritionist-rujuta-diwekar-tells-us-why-to-have-indian-sweets-this-diwali-771108">Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar tells us why to have Indian sweets this Diwali</a>

<h3 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{edc7bb5f-6985-4633-9b2b-4361e1e67dea}{77}" paraid="150220655" >Matcha business&nbsp;</h3>

More people are making matcha at home than ever before. According to the Independent, Japan Centre, the biggest Japanese food store in Europe, has seen people buying 40 per cent more of their matcha powder compared to last year. The global matcha business is huge, worth $2.3 billion now, and experts think it will grow even bigger to $2.9 billion by 2028.&nbsp;

The rise of matcha lattes from a niche beverage to a wellness status symbol is a proud intersection of traditional Japanese tea culture and modern coffee shop culture; social media aesthetics and wellness trends only make it better.

The rise of matcha lattes from a niche beverage to a wellness status symbol is a proud intersection of traditional Japanese tea culture and modern coffee shop culture; social media aesthetics and wellness trends only make it better. Historically speaking, Matcha tea has been a significant part of the Japanese culture because of its health benefits. When was Matcha used? The powdered green tea was traditionally whisked with hot water to create a frothy, vibrant green beverage consumed in formal settings only. This cultural heritage lent matcha an initial air of sophistication and authenticity that would later contribute to its status appeal. Cafe culture and Matcha The modern evolution of Matcha tea and lattes started in specialty coffee shops, particularly in urban centers like New York, Los Angeles, and London; when Matcha was introduced as a healthy drink available to all. Call it a marketing gimmick or actual health benefit promotion, Matcha is now synonymous with one’s social stature. It's part of a feel-good ritual for many. Matcha, health and taste The initial taste of matcha: fresh and forest-like, can be polarizing. Yet much like coffee drinkers learn to love its bitter bite, matcha's earthy intensity becomes mysteriously compelling over time. Once a niche drink, it is now offered in the most sophisticated food chains. “I spend around £30 a week,” says luxury watch specialist Marie Dazzoni, according to The Independent. She added, “I just think it tastes really good. It’s great because it’s available almost everywhere. I go to Starbucks at least four times a week.” The news outlet stated nutritionist Jenna Hope who said, “Matcha is really high in antioxidants. Plus, the caffeine is much more slow-releasing”. Also read: Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar tells us why to have Indian sweets this Diwali Matcha business More people are making matcha at home than ever before. According to the Independent, Japan Centre, the biggest Japanese food store in Europe, has seen people buying 40 per cent more of their matcha powder compared to last year. The global matcha business is huge, worth $2.3 billion now, and experts think it will grow even bigger to $2.9 billion by 2028.

Rise of Matcha Latte: Is it a show of wealth or fitness?

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Natural caffeine sources gain popularity; matcha & botanicals offer calm energy

Assam brews India’s bold entry into global matcha market – All about popular tea

Green Tea vs Matcha: Which one would you prefer to brew?

World's thirst for Japanese tea matcha leads to shortage in global supplies

Rise of Matcha Latte: Is it a show of wealth or fitness?