Is Homemade Green Tea More Cost-Effective Than Store-Bought?
Introduction
Sweetened green tea is a refreshing and popular drink in Japan. While ready-made options are convenient and consistent in flavor, many people wonder: Is it cheaper to make it at home?
In this article, we’ll compare the cost and effort of homemade green tea versus store-bought products to help you decide what makes more sense for your lifestyle.
What Goes Into Homemade Sweet Green Tea?
Although it’s hard to replicate the exact flavor of commercial products, you can make a simple version at home using:
- Powdered sencha or matcha (green tea powder)
- Sweeteners like white sugar or brown sugar
- Hot or cold water (and ice if desired)
You’ll typically mix the ingredients in a blender or stir and strain through a fine mesh to reduce graininess. It’s easy, but not as effortless as dissolving a store-bought powder.
Cost Comparison: Homemade vs. Store-Bought
Here’s a rough breakdown of the cost per 100ml serving:
| Category | Homemade Version | Store-Bought Product |
|---|---|---|
| Tea (powder equivalent) | Approx. ¥200 for 20g | Included, not easily quantified |
| Sugar | Approx. ¥20 for 20g | Included |
| Total per serving | ¥25–30 | ¥35–70 (varies by product) |
| Effort | Heat water, mix, strain | Just dissolve in water |
| Flavor consistency | Inconsistent | Always consistent and balanced |
💡 Homemade is slightly cheaper, but the trade-off is convenience and taste stability.
Challenges of Making It Yourself
While DIY green tea has its charm, there are a few caveats:
- Tea powder quality varies—high-grade matcha or sencha can be pricey.
- Texture issues—powder often doesn’t dissolve fully, leaving residue.
- Flavor control—matching the sweetness or bitterness takes practice.
- Shelf life—homemade versions don’t keep well and may lack preservatives.
Store-bought green tea powders often include additives to enhance shelf life, appearance, and texture—factors that contribute to the polished feel of commercial products.
Final Thoughts
Homemade sweetened green tea can be made for around ¥30 per cup if you use basic ingredients, making it a budget-friendly option for frequent drinkers.
However, if you value consistent taste, convenience, and long-term storage, store-bought products may be the better investment.
In the end, the smarter choice isn’t just about cost—it’s about what best fits your daily routine, taste preference, and how much effort you're willing to put in.
