Introduction: Different Types of Powdered Green Tea
Powdered green tea is a convenient and popular beverage in Japan, but did you know there are several different packaging types?
In this article, we’ll break down the differences between stick packs, cans, and bulk commercial-use formats, and explain when each is most suitable.
Stick Pack Type
These are individually packaged slim sachets, pre-measured for a single serving.
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Key Features
- Pre-portioned for one cup—no need to measure
- Easy to carry and perfect for on-the-go use
- Most dissolve easily in cold water or milk
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Best For
- Home or office use
- Guests, lunchboxes, or casual gifting
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Typical Price Range
- Around 30 to 50 yen per stick
Can Type
Powdered green tea sold in a canister, designed for multiple servings with adjustable quantities.
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Key Features
- Contains enough for many servings, more economical per cup
- You can control the strength by adjusting the amount used
- Better suited for frequent use at home or in cafés
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Best For
- Keeping at home as a staple
- Light commercial use (e.g., cafés, tea stands)
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Caution
- Moisture is the enemy—seal tightly after each use
Bulk Commercial Type
Designed for restaurants, dessert shops, and food manufacturers who use powdered green tea in large quantities.
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Key Features
- Sold in bulk sizes (500g to 1kg or more)
- Excellent cost-efficiency—very low cost per serving
- Some products are blended specifically for commercial applications, with varying sweetness and flavor profiles
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Best For
- Restaurants, dessert production, food service drink machines
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Caution
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place
- Consider dividing into smaller containers for daily use
Comparison Table
| Feature | Stick Pack | Can Type | Bulk Commercial Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantity | Single-serving packs | Dozens of servings | Hundreds of servings |
| Convenience | Very portable | Requires scooping | Needs repackaging or tools |
| Storage | Excellent (individually sealed) | Good (airtight required) | Care needed (humidity control) |
| Main Use | Personal, office use | Home, light commercial use | Restaurants, manufacturing |
Summary
Powdered green tea is available in multiple formats, each suited for different needs and usage frequencies.
- Stick packs are perfect for convenience and portability
- Can types offer flexibility and better value for regular drinkers
- Bulk formats are ideal for food service and commercial kitchens
Understanding these types helps you choose the best option to enjoy your green tea experience to the fullest.
