How to Store Matcha Properly to Keep Its Green Color and Flavor

How to Store Matcha Properly to Keep Its Green Color and Flavor

Matcha is a living product. Its vibrant green color, fresh aroma, and smooth umami flavor come from delicate compounds that are highly sensitive to their environment. Without proper storage, even the highest-quality matcha can quickly lose its beauty and taste.

At Senchoju, we believe that protecting matcha after purchase is just as important as how it is grown and stone-ground in Japan. This guide will show you the best way to store matcha properly so it stays bright, flavorful, and full of nutrients for as long as possible.

Why Matcha Needs Special Storage

Matcha is more fragile than loose-leaf green tea because it is finely powdered. This gives it a large surface area that reacts quickly to:

  • Light
  • Oxygen (air)
  • Heat
  • Moisture
  • Odors

These factors cause oxidation and degradation, leading to:

  • Dull yellow or brown color
  • Increased bitterness
  • Loss of umami and sweetness
  • Weaker aroma
  • Reduced antioxidant value

Proper storage slows down these reactions and preserves matcha at its best.

The 4 Golden Rules of Matcha Storage

1. Protect Matcha from Light

Light destroys chlorophyll, which is responsible for matcha’s rich green color.

Best practices:

  • Always use an opaque container
  • Avoid clear glass jars
  • Store matcha in a dark cabinet or drawer

2. Seal It Tightly from Air

Oxygen is one of matcha’s biggest enemies.

Always:

  • Close the lid tightly after every use
  • Use an airtight tin or container
  • Minimize the time the container stays open

Smaller containers are ideal because they reduce trapped air.

3. Keep It Cool

Heat accelerates oxidation and flavor loss.

Ideal temperature:

  • Below 20°C (68°F)

For long-term storage:

  • The refrigerator is the best place

Avoid storing matcha:

  • Near stoves or ovens
  • In direct sunlight
  • On top of appliances that emit heat

4. Keep It Dry and Odor-Free

Matcha absorbs moisture and smells extremely easily.

Never:

  • Use wet spoons
  • Store near coffee, spices, garlic, or perfumes
  • Keep in humid environments

Always:

  • Use a clean, dry bamboo scoop or spoon
  • Store in an odor-free space

Should You Store Matcha in the Refrigerator?

Yes. Refrigeration is the best method for preserving matcha, especially for unopened or premium ceremonial-grade matcha.

How to Store Matcha in the Fridge Safely:

  1. Keep matcha in its original airtight tin
  2. Place it inside a sealed zip bag or airtight box
  3. Store it on a stable fridge shelf
  4. Before opening, let the tin sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes
    → This prevents condensation from forming inside

After opening:

  • You can continue storing it in the refrigerator
  • Always seal tightly after each use

How Long Does Matcha Stay Fresh?

Storage Condition  Freshness Duration
Unopened, refrigerated 6–12 months
Opened, refrigerated 1–2 months
Opened, room temperature 2–4 weeks

How to Tell If Matcha Has Gone Bad

Fresh matcha:

  • Bright, vibrant green color
  • Fresh grassy aroma with light sweetness
  • Smooth umami flavor

Expired or oxidized matcha:

  • Yellowish or brownish tone
  • Flat, stale, or fishy smell
  • Bitter, harsh taste

If matcha loses its green brilliance, it has already begun to degrade.

Why Senchoju Matcha Stays Fresh Longer

At Senchoju, we protect freshness at every step:

  • Small-batch importing from Japan
  • Temperature-controlled storage
  • UV-protected, airtight packaging
  • Fast shipping across Canada

All Senchoju matcha is:

  • 100% Japanese origin
  • Stone-ground
  • Shade-grown
  • Carefully preserved for maximum freshness

Best Containers for Matcha Storage

Choose containers that are:

  • Airtight
  • Opaque
  • Made of tin or food-grade metal

Avoid:

  • Clear glass
  • Plastic containers without seals

Quick Matcha Storage Checklist

  • Store in an airtight container
  • Keep away from light
  • Refrigerate when possible
  • Avoid heat and humidity
  • Use dry utensils only
  • Keep away from strong odors

Storing matcha properly is the key to enjoying its true quality. With the right care, your matcha will remain vibrant green, richly aromatic, and beautifully smooth in flavor—just as Japanese tea masters intended.

At Senchoju, we are committed to delivering authentic Japanese matcha to Canada in its freshest form, and helping you preserve that quality at home.

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