How to store Matcha Properly : Why Freshness Matters

February 5, 2026

Freshness is one of the most important — and most overlooked — aspects of quality tea. Especially Matcha.

Because Matcha is finely milled into a powder, it has a much larger surface area exposed to the environment than loose leaf tea. Once exposed to heat, light and oxygen, matcha begins to slowly oxidise. Over time, this affects its colour, aroma and flavour — dulling that vibrant green hue and softening the smooth, umami-rich taste that good matcha is known for.

Why Matcha freshness matters

Oxidation doesn’t happen all at once — it happens gradually. As matcha oxidises, it can become flatter in flavour, more bitter, and lose its fresh aroma.

This is why how matcha is stored matters just as much as where it’s grown or how it’s milled.

The problem with how Matcha is often stored

Much of the Matcha on the market is stored at room temperature. It may sit in warehouses for weeks or months, then remain on retail shelves under bright lights before it ever reaches your cup.

By the time it’s opened, it may already be past its peak freshness.

This doesn’t mean the tea is unsafe — but it does mean it’s unlikely to taste as vibrant, smooth or alive as freshly stored Matcha.

How Matcha is stored in Japan

In Japan, freshness is treated very differently.

Tea factories store tencha (the shaded tea leaves that are milled into matcha) in cool, controlled environments to slow oxidation.

Many tea shops also store matcha in small refrigerators — right up until the point of sale. This approach helps preserve colour, aroma and flavour, keeping Matcha tasting closer to how it did the day it was milled.

Why we store our Matcha in the fridge

At Matcha Yu Tea, we’ve followed this method from the very beginning.

For over 8 years, we’ve refrigerated the matcha we sell — from the moment it arrives to the moment it leaves our care.

Refrigeration slows oxidation and protects flavour, helping Matcha retain its:

Vibrant green colour
Smooth, balanced flavour
Fresh Aroma

Every batch of Matcha we sell is:

Stored refrigerated as soon as it arrives
Kept away from heat and light

It’s a behind-the-scenes choice — but one you can taste.

How to store Matcha at home

Once your matcha arrives, proper storage will help keep it fresh for longer.

Store Matcha in an airtight container
Keep it in the fridge
Always use a dry spoon
Reseal well after each use

Does Matcha need to be refrigerated?

Matcha doesn’t have to be refrigerated, but refrigeration is one of the most effective ways to slow oxidation and preserve freshness — especially once opened.

If you want matcha that stays vibrant, smooth and true to its origin, cool and airtight storage is key.