How Is “Matcha-Added” Green Tea Powder Different?

Introduction

When browsing green tea powder products, you might notice labels like “Matcha-Added” or “Contains Matcha.”
But what does that really mean? This article explains the role of matcha in green tea powder, how it affects flavor, and what to look for in ingredient labels.

Relationship Between Green Tea Powder and Matcha

Green tea powder typically consists of finely ground tea leaves (like sencha or matcha) mixed with sweeteners such as sugar or glucose.
When pure matcha (stone-ground tencha) is added in a certain proportion, the product is marketed as “Matcha-Added Green Tea Powder.”

How It's Made & Typical Ratios

The production process for matcha-added green tea includes:

Selecting base tea powder or matcha
Blending with sugars and other ingredients
Optionally adding flavorings or milk powder

Matcha content varies by product, but is often around 5–30%.
Higher-end products usually contain more matcha, resulting in a richer color and flavor.

Differences in Flavor and Appearance

Adding matcha brings distinct changes:

Deeper, more vivid green color
Enhanced umami and slight bitterness
Richer aroma with a characteristic “matcha” scent

However, matcha is a delicate ingredient prone to oxidation, so preservation techniques become important.

How to Read the Label

Even if a product says “Matcha-Added,” the actual amount may be small.
You can estimate the proportion by checking where “matcha” appears in the ingredient list (ingredients are listed by quantity, in descending order).

Also, watch for phrases like “Matcha Flavor” or “Matcha Used”—these may refer to flavoring rather than real matcha.

Summary

“Matcha-Added” green tea powder tends to offer deeper color, richer flavor, and a more authentic aroma than standard products.
Since the amount and quality of matcha can vary greatly, it’s a good idea to check the ingredients and color tone when making a purchase.