FAQ for Encha Organic Matcha

What are the differences between the three Encha grades?

All grades of Encha are pure organic matcha powder grown on our farm in Uji, Japan. Their nutrition content and taste differences are detailed in an informative chart on Encha Grades page. 
In brief, Ceremonial-grade Encha is ground from premium 1st-harvest, the most tender leaves each spring. The taste is delicate and smooth. The best choice for the ceremonial style of drinking matcha with just water.
Latte-grade Encha is ground from standard 1st-harvest, high-quality leaves in each spring. When prepared just with hot water, Latte-grade tastes a bit stronger. That taste profile makes it very suitable to balance with the creamy taste of milk.
Culinary-grade is from premium 2nd-harvest leaves. 

Can I use an Encha grade for a different purpose (e.g., Latte-grade for ceremonial matcha tea)?

Yes. Encha grades are created by Encha Founder and Farmer based on tasting research. But you can totally personalize it to suit your own preference. All grades of Encha are pure organic matcha powder. Feel free to experiment in your healthy creative ways.

Where is Encha matcha from?

Encha Matcha is sourced from organic farms in the Uji region of Kyoto, Japan, an area renowned for its high-quality tea production.

How many servings or cups can I get from one packet? What is the serving size?

Recommended serving size is 1 level teaspoon which is about 2 grams of Encha matcha powder. It is the same as about 2 bamboo scoops (it is difficult to measure using the traditional, but elegant, bamboo scoop, though).

So, one 30 gram packet of Encha will offer 15 tsp servings; one 60g packet will offer 30 tsp servings.

Many people like the recommended serving size to replace their cup of coffee or other teas. Some people are more sensitive to caffeine and take ½ serving. Others like it more and use 1 heaping tsp. Have fun to experiment and create your perfect cup of #MyEncha.

What do you recommend if I am new to matcha or Encha?

We recommend you to learn about organic matcha and peruse the benefits and grades of Encha.

Is Encha matcha healthy?

Click here to see independent reports to verify our USDA-certified organic status, which indicates our matcha has no radioactivity and no lead. Encha only offers pure and organic matcha green tea powder — meaning no additives, no preservatives, and always non-GMO.  

I don’t have a matcha whisk or frother. Can I just use a spoon?

Initially, you can use a spoon just to feel the benefits from drinking Encha. However, there will be clumps at the bottom and the drink will not be very well-mixed. Later on, you can get a whisk, frother or use a blender.

How do I  edit or pause Encha subscription?

Once you log into your Encha account, you can easily manage your subscription. We have provided detailed instructions with screenshots on our Encha Subscription page.

I can’t log into my account? What should I do?

You can click “Reset Password” link.
Or, if the system generates the error message “Invalid login credentials”, there is NO account under the email you entered. You probably made purchases as a guest before, so you can use the same email to create an account.

What should I do if I haven’t received my package?

Please check the tracking status. Occasionally, USPS tracking indicates it is delivered when it arrives at your local post office hub. In 1-2 days, the mail carrier will actually deliver it. Fee free to email encha@encha.com at any time. We will help you.

Have you tested Encha matcha for radiation and lead?

Radioactivity is NEVER detected in Encha. Encha is grown in the Uji mountains in the Kyoto prefecture in central south Japan. Its mountainous area is far from the 2011 Fukushima site.
Lead is NOT detected at the most stringent CA Prop 65 limits (lead limit is 0.5 ppm, particle per million).
See Certificates page for the full information and reports.

Is your packaging BPA-Free?

Yes. It is BPA-free.

What is the best way to close the Encha packet to ensure it is fully resealed?

First, use scissors to open the packet. After each use, reseal it tightly. Tap the packet gently to prevent powder from flying out. Close the seal. Double check to make sure it is fully closed.

How do I store Encha packets? Can I freeze it?

Store your Encha packet in a refrigerator or a dry, cool, and dark place. Yes, you can freeze it.

How fast should I finish an opened packet? 

After you open a new packet of Encha, it is the best to consume it within 1-3 months. This way helps retain the freshness. Frequent opening of the packet brings in a tiny amount of air each time, which is  not a big concern. Always reseal your opened Encha packet right away and keep it in a cool, dark, dry place or in the fridge.

Which matcha tool is better: bamboo whisk or electric frother?

If you like a smoother texture for Encha drinks, the whisk is a better choice. With its 80-100 multiple thin prongs, the whisk provides finer control and more coverage.  
An electric frother creates one fast stirring motion, resulting in bigger bubbles. If you like it foamy, then a frother is the way to go.

How do I care for the bamboo whisk?

After whisking, rinse the whisk right way in water and place it on your whisk holder to air dry.

How often shall I replace my bamboo whisk?

It depends how often you use it. If you see the prongs getting worn out or the whisk has brown spots, replace it. Usually, a properly-maintained whisk can last 3-6 months.

How to use the handheld electric frother? Do I need to change the battery?

Before using your frother, remove the clear strip from the battery cover and the plastic insert on the wand (if present). Turn on the switch to make sure your frother works.
Only the stainless steel wand can go in your matcha drink. Insert the wand inside the beverage before turning it on to prevent splashing.
Change the battery when you notice the motion of the wand becoming weaker.

Should I sift my matcha powder?

It is optional for Encha Organic Matcha because our matcha powder is very finely ground. However, sifting will make the texture even finer and the taste even smoother.

Can I make matcha with cold water?

Yes. You can make matcha drinks with cold water or add ice.

How do I whisk Encha? How do I make Encha latte?

You can watch our How to Whisk Ceremonial Encha  and 5 Ways to Make Encha Latte videos for step by step instructions.

I opened my package, can I still return it and get a refund?

How do I send Encha as a gift?

When checking out on Encha.com, put “This is a gift.” in the Special Instructions for Seller box. During non-holiday time, we will simply remove the packing slip which contains the price information. During holidays, we might offer a free greeting card on which we can write a brief message for you. Please check Encha.com home page for Holiday Specials (if present).

How much caffeine does matcha have compared to coffee?

One serving (1 tsp/2 g) of matcha has about 60 mg of caffeine, which is ⅔ the caffeine content of a standard 8oz cup of coffee. See Encha Grades for a detailed content chart.

How do I monitor my health benefits?

You can track your felt experience of mental alertness and antioxidant benefits using our Encha Self Study Guide. For detailed information, please read Encha Benefits page.

Can I drink matcha I have a medical condition or if I am pregnant?

Please consult with your doctor regarding your condition and medical concerns.

Can children drink matcha?

Please consult your pediatrician.

Is matcha good for weight loss?

Currently, there’s no conclusive evidence that matcha helps with weight loss. Matcha has a rich amount of antioxidants, called catechins (including EGCG). What that does is it helps burn fat and limits intestinal absorptions of lipids (dietary fat and cholesterol). There are so many other factors that matter in weight loss such as diet, exercise, metabolism, etc. So we generally recommend a holistic approach and personalize it to your own need.

What if my stomach gets upset after drinking matcha?

Some people are very sensitive to caffeine. It is better to eat some food before, during, or after drinking matcha.

What time of the day should I drink matcha?

Morning and afternoon are the best. Drink it at the times you would normally drink coffee or other caffeinated teas.

What type of milk do you recommend?

We recommend plant-based non-dairy milk such as almond milk or coconut milk for Encha latte. Several scientific studies found casein, a type of protein in dairy milk, might inhibit the full absorption of green tea antioxidants (catechins) to a certain extent (e.g., 20%).

What water or milk temperature should I use for a cup of Encha?