If you're looking to cut down on coffee, matcha powder could be a great alternative. With about half the caffeine of coffee, the best matcha powders provide more sustained energy throughout the day, avoiding the afternoon slump often associated with coffee.
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from shade-grown green tea leaves. Unlike regular tea, it is whisked directly into water, meaning you consume the whole leaf and all its nutrients. Rich in antioxidants and containing the amino acid L-theanine, matcha is known for supporting steady energy, sharper focus, and a sense of calm.
After testing numerous matcha powders over several months, this health journalist has identified the top options. Dirtea's matcha mushroom super blend combines ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha with functional mushrooms like lion's mane and tremella, plus a B-vitamin complex. It mixes well with water and plant milks, especially oat milk, and provides a calm, steady lift without jitters. At nearly £50 for 30 servings, it is pricey, but a subscription reduces the cost to £29.
For a budget-friendly choice, PerfectTed's matcha powder offers good value without sacrificing taste. Available in original, blueberry, and vanilla flavours, the vanilla version is sweet enough to drink with water alone, though it may be overly sweet for some. The original has a stronger earthy taste, which can be softened with coconut milk. Users may notice calmer mornings and improved focus.
Bird & Blend offers the largest range of matcha flavours in the UK, including carrot cake, strawberry and cream, and lemon. Their matcha kit contains 12 individual tins, making it an ideal gift. However, some blends can be clumpy and require sieving before mixing.
