Matcha products found to contain aluminum in consumer study

A study by the French consumer association Que Choisir has revealed the presence of aluminum in several matcha products. After testing seven different matcha samples of varying prices and qualities, researchers found that all seven contained aluminum. Notably, four of the seven products exceeded the aluminum exposure reference levels used by European authorities.

Unlike traditional green tea, where leaves are steeped and then removed, matcha is made from finely ground tencha leaves that are consumed in their entirety. This process means that any substances absorbed by the plant from the soil, such as aluminum which is common in certain volcanic regions in Japan and China, are ingested by the consumer.

While the findings are concerning, the study noted that none of the tested products violated current legislation, as the European Union has not established a maximum permitted limit for aluminum content in food and beverages. The research indicated that cheaper products generally performed worse across most criteria. Experts suggest that regular consumers consider limiting their intake of matcha and matcha-infused products, such as biscuits, plant milks, and iced teas.