Travel

Matcha Shortage Worldwide: If You Can’t Whisk Them, Join Em’ Alternatives

Whenever I think of a green drink, my mind pictures a freshly whisked, foamy matcha poured into a glass of milk, and that “ooommm” umami taste. The vibrant grass green blending with pure white latte is what makes matcha fans crazy over this popular concoction.Not only does matcha taste great, but it’s also all about quality, made from dried tea leaves farmed from the manicured hills of Japan. Not only is it known for its calming flavour, but it also packs nutrients such as EGCG and antioxidants. However, recent news revealed that Japan is facing a global shortage of matcha due to the high export demands and lower-yielding harvests. As a result, many food and beverage outlets are facing supply issues and struggling to source quality matcha powder. For this reason, the prices of matcha have then surged due to the consistently high demands. All may seem grey now, but there are in fact alternatives that can bring more “green” into your lives! While we wait for the matcha supply to replenish and prices to stabalise, here are a few choices that can help satisfy your matcha needs, sorted according to closest taste. What can you drink to replace matcha?1. SenchaPhoto by Yu Tea​Even though both powders look almost identical, sencha and matcha are sourced from different types of green tea leaves. Sencha powder is made from ground sencha tea leaves, while matcha powder is made from tencha tea leaves. Sencha is more commonly consumed in Japan, so it is an inexpensive alternative to its cousin.Its taste also differs from the earthy flavour of matcha, as sencha is known to be more astringent due to its higher content of antioxidants (catechin). While many recommend steeping it, sencha powder can also be whisked and enjoyed latte-style.Houjicha Market price: $28.34 / 80g from Shopee2. Green Tea Latte MixPhoto by Coffee BreakWe can agree that instant drinks cannot replace the real deal, but they are a lifesaver to our wallets. Instant matcha green tea premixes are milder versions of the traditional matcha latte, made with skim milk and creamer instead of fresh milk. They offer convenience to matcha lovers, requiring only hot water and no whisking. However, many matcha lovers have commented that these instant drinks can be too sweet, with most of them containing high levels of sugar. So, do drink with caution! Quick tip: whisk or blend the green tea mix to achieve a frothy, café-style texture. Market price: $14.90 / 250 g from Coffee Break (no sugar!) 3. HoujichaPhoto by Hojicha.coAlthough it is not as green as its counterpart, houjicha is another smooth alternative for anyone craving a deeper tea flavour. Like matcha, it is made from finely ground Japanese roasted tea leaves, but these tea leaves are roasted over charcoal at temperatures over 200°C, giving it its distinct toasty and smoky profile. It is perfect for those who prefer less bitterness, caffeine, and astringency, thanks to its unique roasting process. Houjicha is prepared the same way as matcha, which is whisked to release its deep flavour and paired with a glass of cold milk.Market price: $16.90 / 30 g from Matchaya4. GenmaichaPhoto by Eva Bronzini This is another popular tea alternative that can send tea patrons into a calming state with its toasty and nutty taste. Genmaicha is prepared by first roasting brown rice until it is lightly golden, then mixing it with green tea leaves. Therefore, you can sense hints of roasted brown rice in every sip. Genmaicha can be enjoyed with milk or by itself, and it is a comforting, less caffeinated drink that will not give you the jitters. Many also use genmaicha powder in desserts and baked goods due to its low astringency and strong taste.Market price: $43.60 / 100g from Hvala5. Moringa PowderPhoto by William Greaves BrownThis may be the most unusual alternative in the list, but don’t let its peculiarity scare you. Moringa powder is made from the dried and finely ground leaves of the Moringa oleifera tree, often called the ‘miracle tree’ for its excellent nutritional profile. Known as a superfood, it is high in vitamins C and A, calcium, potassium, and iron. Moringa powder has a rather distinctive taste with an earthy, spinach-like undertone, which can be quite intense. Therefore, many would consume it latte-style or blend it into smoothies. Studies have shown that it boosts energy and improves immunity, making it the healthiest option out of this list. Market price: $ 7.99 / 100g from Nature’s Superfoods Store Alternatives make a good addition to your stashNot that we frown upon serving the best matcha goodies for your friends and family when they drop by (we don’t mind a free matcha drink!), but it’s just simply not sustainable to only drink matcha purely, all day, all week, because it’s expensive. Looking at this price list, you can make your decision on what’s your budget and which alternatives you can add to your dry cupboard. Besides, matcha is simply an exploration of art in a drink, and if one can argue, drinking alternatives can be a good exploration and fun discussion point with your guests. Of course, we won’t stop you from only serving matcha to guests as your rule, just don’t forget to invite us when you host.This is a partnership content that includes information about CMC Invest.But of course, if you are still looking for the real deal, we got you. Redeem an exclusive free CMC x Hvala matcha drink by creating your free account using the code “thesimplesum”. We know every sip of matcha reveals its deep, layered notes, which can only be truly appreciated through experience, precision, and patience. Much like matcha, investing takes discipline and patience to truly master —and CMC Invest is here to guide you on your investment journey. Now you can enjoy both matcha and the sweet beginnings of your investment journey. Kanpai.