Matcha vs. Coffee

Matcha is gaining momentum around the country. You may have noticed matcha latte’s at your local coffee shop, or even at large chains like Starbucks or Pete’s. It’s a popular healthy alternative to the daily cup of coffee, but does it give you as much of a caffeine boost?

Caffeine

Caffeine content in matcha vs. popular coffee brands.

brand	oz	mg	rating
Ceremonial Matcha	14	123
Dunkin Donuts Medium Coffee	14	178
Starbucks Grande Caffe Latte	16	150
Starbucks Grande Cappuccino	16	150
5 Hour Energy	2	200
Red Bull	8.46	80
McDonalds Coffee	16	145

*Data provided by the Caffeine Informer

It’s safe to say that coffee does contain slightly more caffeine than matcha, at least in major brands. However, Matcha contains an additional chemical known to improve mental focus and alertness that coffee doesn’t. It’s called L-theanine. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha provides a unique combination of alertness, focus and increased mental ability.

Scientific studies referenced by Russ Mason (M.S.) in the article 200 mg of Zen explain some of the unique properties that result from the combination of L-theanine and caffeine:

Studies consistently support the conclusion that consumption of 200 mg of L-theanine results in an increase of alpha-wave activity in the brain within 30–40 minutes.

Mason goes on to predict that as the US becomes more aware of the focus related benefits, drinks like matcha will quickly gain appeal with daily drinkers:

As the U.S market comes to appreciate this benevolent—and powerful—component of green tea (L-theanine), there is likely to be a proliferation of L-theanine–enriched foods and beverages, such as are sold in Japan today.

Although matcha doesn’t contain as much caffeine as your daily cup of coffee, it may in fact provide you with a better mix of focus, mental awareness, and cognitive benefits.