Matcha 

From Trend To Tradition: Matcha   by Hosana Fujioka

Food is a fundamental part of life that connects every living organism on this planet. It is something we must all partake in, in order to gain the proper nutrients that our bodies need. This is a simple fact that we know instinctively right from the start. Generally, when we talk about our identity and what makes us unique, we sometimes forget how big of a part that food plays in shaping our lives. Food signifies more than what we eat, it is an important cultural signifier that represents where we come from, our values, traditions, religion, identity, and so much more (Fortier 2024). 

While discussing the important role of food in shaping identity and culture, it was important to consider what kind of foods hold significance that go beyond their nutritional value. That’s when matcha almost immediately came to mind, as a superfood that is so prevalent in today’s society. The word “matcha” stems from the words ‘matsu’, which means to rub, and ‘cha’, which is the Chinese translation of tea. Together, matcha is a fine powdered form of green tea, used in traditional tea ceremonies (Matcha 2024). Though there are plenty of foods that hold great significance within their cultures and act as key ingredients, matcha has undoubtedly captivated a worldwide audience, adopting almost a unique sense of personality that transcends mere sustenance, but acts as a symbol of cultural heritage for a nation that has completely adopted it into its culture. 

As we know it today, matcha has taken the world by storm, capturing the attention of tea enthusiasts, health conscious individuals, and social media influencers alike. From its ancient Chinese origins to revered status in Japanese tea ceremonies, holding its current status as a trendy beverage on a global scale is a testament to this superfood's appeal. In exploring the rise of matcha, we will trace the evolution of matcha from its production, the chemical composition as an antioxidant, and the diverse psychological effects on our bodies’ nervous system, including our cognitive functions. Additionally, we will explore the cultural and societal forces behind its meteoric rise, shedding light on how matcha has become not just a beverage, but a symbol of holistic well-being in contemporary society.