How to Store Your Matcha So It Stays Fresh and Flavorful
Matcha is a delicate, vibrant green tea powder that thrives on freshness. But unlike your average pantry staple, matcha can lose its magic pretty quickly if it’s not stored properly. If you've ever noticed your matcha turning dull, bitter, or stale before you could finish the pouch, don’t worry, you're not alone.
At Kintsugi, we believe that enjoying ceremonial grade matcha daily should be simple, and storing it correctly is part of that. Here’s everything you need to know about how to keep your matcha fresh, flavorful, and full of life from the first scoop to the last.
Why Matcha Needs Special Care
Matcha is made from finely ground green tea leaves, which means it’s more sensitive to light, air, heat, and moisture than regular tea. These elements can break down the chlorophyll and catechins (the antioxidants that give matcha its signature benefits), leading to a loss of vibrant green color, a dull, bitter taste, and decreased nutritional value.
5 Golden Rules for Storing Matcha
1. Keep it airtight
Once opened, your matcha should always be sealed tightly. Exposure to air causes oxidation, which dulls both the color and flavor. Store your matcha in its original pouch or tin, and if it comes in a pouch, consider transferring it to an opaque airtight container for added protection.
2. Store in a cool, dry place
Heat is a fast track to flavor loss. Keep your matcha away from direct sunlight, stoves, ovens, or warm countertops. A cool pantry or cupboard works well. If you live in a warm or humid climate (hello, Singapore!), you might consider the fridge, but with caution (see next point).
3. Fridge? Yes, but read this first
Refrigeration can help extend freshness, especially if you're storing matcha long term. But there's a catch: condensation. If matcha is taken in and out of the fridge frequently, moisture can sneak in and ruin it. Only store in the fridge if it's sealed airtight and you let it return to room temperature before opening it.
Tip: If you have multiple packs, keep the unopened ones in the fridge and the one you’re currently using outside, in a cool, dry spot.
4. Avoid strong odors
Matcha is like a sponge, it absorbs smells easily. Don’t store it near coffee, spices, or anything pungent. This is another reason airtight containers are your best friend. Ensure the container that you're using is opaque to block out excess sunlight.
5. Use it within 1–2 months of opening
For the best flavor and nutritional value, aim to finish your matcha within 2 to 4 weeks after opening. Without opening, your matcha can last up till a year before it starts oxidizing. After oxidizing, it is still relatively safe for consumption, however you wouldn’t get the same nutrients and health benefits as fresh matcha, and your matcha would probably taste stale and bitter.