Insights from Tea Farmers in Uji, Japan
When shopping for matcha, you’ve probably asked yourself: Should I go organic?
It sounds healthier, more natural — but is it always better?
After speaking directly with tea farmers in Uji, Kyoto — one of Japan’s most respected tea regions — we’ve learned that the answer is more nuanced than a simple “yes” or “no.”
Color and Flavor: A Matter of Cultivation
Non-organic matcha is often a vivid, lush green with a bold, umami-rich taste. This comes from careful fertilization, especially with nitrogen-rich inputs that intensify flavor and color. Think of it as a gourmet approach — rich in nutrients, designed to bring out the best in every leaf.
In contrast, organic matcha tends to be lighter in color, with a gentler, more subtle taste — sometimes closer to sencha. Without the help of chemical fertilizers, the tea plants dig deep into the earth to find nutrients naturally. It's a kind of “vegan farming,” and the taste reflects that: earthy, soft, and unpretentious.
But “Organic” Doesn’t Mean Just One Thing
What surprised us most was how diverse organic farming can be.
Some farms use organic fertilizers derived from animals, while others follow a completely plant-based, sustainable cycle. Both are certified organic under Japan’s JAS system — but the farming philosophies are very different. These differences can greatly influence the tea’s aroma, depth, and finish.
So while the “organic” label is useful, it doesn’t tell the full story. Knowing how the tea is grown matters just as much.
Processing, Storage, and Beyond
Tea farmers were also quick to point out that cultivation is only part of the picture.
The type of tea plant, weather, soil, how the leaves are steamed, dried, and ground — even the condition of the stone mill — all affect the taste. And once matcha is ground into powder, it becomes incredibly sensitive. Light, heat, and air can quickly degrade its flavor and color.
In fact, the vibrant green you see in premium matcha is often the result of careful, cold storage just as much as expert farming.
It’s Not About “Better or Worse” — It’s About What You Value
One Uji farmer put it beautifully:
“It’s not which one is better — it’s what standard you’re using to decide.”
Do you prioritize vibrant color and bold taste? Or do you care more about sustainability and how the tea is grown?
The best matcha for you depends on what you believe in. So next time you’re shopping, look beyond the label. Seek out the story. That just might lead you to a cup that feels perfect — not just for your tastebuds, but for your values.
Explore Our Curated Matcha Collection
At UND, we source both organic and non-organic matcha directly from Japanese farms that share our values.
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