Colourful matcha: is it even matcha at all? We check out the blue, pink, and purple versions

Browsing social media, you have surely noticed aesthetic, pastel beverages more than once. The trend for photogenic, fabulously colour-saturated lattes is in full swing! At the centre of this culinary and lifestyle fuss is a product that is winning the hearts of novelty lovers – colourful matcha.

Tempting shades of blue, pink, and purple arouse delight, but they also raise a lot of questions and doubts. Is it even matcha at all? What are these intriguing powders made of, and how can you use them in your kitchen to enjoy not only a beautiful appearance but also great taste? In this blog post, we take a closer look at phenomenal versions such as blue matcha, pink matcha, and purple matcha. We will explain step by step exactly what lies behind these names, and why it is worth inviting them into your home menu!

Summary:

1. What is classic matcha and does matcha contain caffeine?
2. Colourful matcha – where did the trend for blue, pink, and purple drinks come from?
3. Blue matcha – what is blue matcha and what is it made of?
4. Pink matcha – dragon fruit matcha
5. Purple matcha – ube powder
6. Is colourful matcha really matcha?
7. How to choose a good colourful matcha?
8. Which colourful matcha is worth trying?

What is classic matcha and does matcha contain caffeine?

Before we move on to the rainbow variations, it is worth reminding ourselves what we are actually dealing with in the case of the original. Traditional Japanese matcha is powdered green tea (Camellia sinensis). It differs from ordinary leafy infusions in that the bushes are specially shaded for several weeks before harvesting. Because of this, they produce huge amounts of chlorophyll, which translates into its deep, almost vivid green colour and a wealth of nutrients.

Many beginner adepts of the tea world ask themselves a key question: does matcha contain caffeine? The answer is: definitely yes! Because by drinking matcha, we consume whole, ground tea leaves, we provide the body with much more caffeine and valuable micronutrients than in the case of brewing traditional loose-leaf or bagged tea. Matcha works perfectly as a natural, healthy energy boost.

💬 Scientific source: J. Kochman et al., Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review, Molecules, 2020.

As confirmed by numerous scientific reviews, including those published in the prestigious journal Molecules, classic matcha is a powerful source of caffeine and antioxidants (including valuable catechins). Importantly, they have a stimulating effect, but thanks to the presence of an amino acid called L-theanine, energy is released slowly and gradually, without the unpleasant "crash" effect known to coffee lovers.

Colourful matcha – what exactly is it, and does it contain caffeine just like classic matcha?

Since we already know that the classic green version is a natural energy drink, the question naturally arises: what about its rainbow alternatives? Here comes the biggest (and for many people, a very positive!) surprise. Colourful matcha is not a tea from a botanical point of view.

So where did this name come from? The word "matcha" was simply borrowed in this case and refers exclusively to the form of the product. It is about the consistency of a tiny powder which, combined with water or milk and after thorough mixing (preferably with a bamboo chasen whisk or an electric milk frother – exactly the same as with classic matcha) creates a smooth, thick, and incredibly photogenic beverage. Colourful powders are nothing more than 100% natural, freeze-dried or dried and carefully powdered fruits, flowers, and root vegetables. Therefore, the only things that connect them with the original are the powder form and the preparation ritual.

Since we won't find Camellia sinensis leaves in the composition of colourful versions, the answer to the question about stimulating properties suggests itself. In the vast majority of cases, "colourful matchas" do not contain a single gram of caffeine! This is excellent news for people sensitive to this ingredient, as well as for those who fancy a relaxing, warm, and fabulously looking latte in the evening hours, without worrying about counting sheep until dawn.

Since we have already put the basic facts in order in our heads and we know that rainbow powders are a completely different story than their traditional counterpart – they won't give us a morning kick, but instead, they will envelop us with flavour during evening relaxation – it is worth considering the phenomenon of their popularity. How did it even happen that modern cafes and our social media feeds were flooded with a wave of pastel, photogenic drinks? Let's check it out!

Colourful matcha – where did the trend for blue, pink, and purple drinks come from?

It is no secret that "we eat and drink with our eyes". In the era of Instagram, TikTok, and the ubiquitous visual culture, the aesthetics of served dishes and beverages has become almost as important for many of us as their final taste. We used to admire intricate milk foam patterns in classic coffee, then came the time for the intense, deep green of matcha – a colour that revolutionised the speciality market. However, the culinary world hates boredom, and our appetite for new visual experiences keeps growing!

The real boom for colourful matcha is a direct response to the need to create phenomenal drinks, but in harmony with the healthy eating trend. Cafe customers – and following them, also home baristas – began to look for healthier, plant-based alternatives that would please the eye, look beautiful in pictures, and at the same time not provide the body with harmful chemicals. It turned out that nature has an amazing and endless palette of colours to offer – from neon pink, through sky blue, right up to a mystical, almost magical purple drink.

Initially, colourful lattes were served in trendy, big-city cafes as exclusive curiosities. However, it quickly turned out that thanks to the availability of powdered fruits and flowers, preparing them in the comfort of your home is just as simple as making ordinary tea. It is precisely this ease of use, combined with an absolutely stunning visual effect, that propelled the global trend.

Blue matcha – what is it and what is it made of?

The first and probably the most recognisable star among the colourful alternatives is blue matcha or matcha blue. Its intense, cornflower shade catches the eye and arouses huge curiosity. So, what is blue matcha exactly? As we have already mentioned, it has nothing to do with green tea leaves. It is an extraordinary, fully plant-based powder that hides the true magic of nature.

Clitoria ternatea – the secret of blue matcha

Many of you are probably wondering right now, what is blue matcha made of? The answer is simple, yet fascinating. Its only ingredient is the dried and then finely ground flowers of a plant with the graceful name Clitoria ternatea (known in the Western world as butterfly pea flower). This phenomenal climber grows naturally in the tropical climate of Southeast Asia. For centuries, it has been used in Ayurvedic tradition, as well as an entirely natural, plant-based dye for traditional Asian dishes and fabrics.

And how does blue matcha present itself in terms of its properties? Modern scientific research on clitoria flowers clearly shows that they contain an exceptionally high level of flavonoids and anthocyanins. It is these compounds that exhibit strong antioxidant activity. Simply put – the antioxidants contained in this extraordinary plant help cells fight oxidative stress, making Clitoria ternatea a very valuable and functional addition to our daily diet.

💬 Scientific source: E. J. Jeyaraj et al., Extraction methods of butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea) flower and biological activities of its phytochemicals, Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2020.

Blue matcha can change colour! How is that possible?

Here is the reason why blue matcha has become an absolute internet hit all over the world! This inconspicuous powder hides an amazing property – it can change its shade depending on what ingredients we combine it with. This spectacular visual effect is due to the previously mentioned strong pigments – anthocyanins from the ternatin group, which naturally react to any changes in pH levels.

When you pour plain water over blue matcha or combine it with milk, which has a near-neutral pH, you will get a beautiful, deep blue. However, all you have to do is add just a few drops of lemon or lime juice to the beverage – thus lowering the pH, changing it to acidic – and the liquid will literally change its colour to intense purple or even bright pink right before your eyes! It is an absolutely foolproof trick to make a huge impression on your guests when serving a summer, "magical" lemonade.

Blue matcha – does it contain caffeine?

If, after reading about the energetic properties of classic green tea, you are wondering what it looks like in this case, the answer is short and unambiguous: no, blue matcha does not contain a single gram of caffeine. An infusion prepared from Clitoria ternatea flowers has a completely different profile of action. It does not stimulate the nervous system and does not raise blood pressure, which is why it is an excellent choice for a blissful, calming evening ritual. You can safely wrap yourself up with a warm, sky-blue latte after a hard day, without the slightest risk of having trouble falling asleep at night.

Blue matcha – what does it taste like and how to prepare it?

Classic matcha is famous for its characteristic, grassy umami flavour, which can be extremely dominant. And how does the floral, sky-blue alternative compare to it? Blue matcha is surprisingly mild and delicate in taste. Its profile can be described as slightly herbal, woody, with a subtle, earthy note – many gourmets compare this aroma to a very weak herbal infusion or delicate green tea. Because this taste is not overwhelming, the blue powder constitutes an absolutely perfect base for culinary experiments.

However, before you throw yourself into the whirlwind of culinary experiments, it is worth mentioning one more very important issue. The Mary Rose Blue Matcha available in our shop is officially classified as a dietary supplement. What does this mean in practice? This product has clearly defined recommendations regarding daily intake and precise dosage. We always encourage you to look at the product description on our website or read the label before preparing your first sky-blue cup. Thanks to this, you can be sure that you are incorporating this magical powder into your diet in a safe, sensible way and getting the best out of it.

The blue infusion from Clitoria ternatea is an absolute hit and the undisputed king of evening relaxation, but after all, nature has many more colours in its palette. If you prefer slightly different flavours and are looking for something that, instead of mild, herbal notes, will offer you a fruity profile and conjure up an almost neon effect in the glass – we have something special. We leave the cool shades of blue for a moment and move straight to the tropics to take a closer look at another social media star. Ahead of us is pink matcha!

Pink matcha – dragon fruit matcha

When it seems that the culinary world of colourful beverages has no more secrets from us, she enters the stage – pink matcha. This tiny powder with a delightful, almost neon shade of fuchsia is another proof that nature is the best and most creative artist. And here once again we must dispel any doubts: just as in the case of its blue predecessor, the name "matcha" is only a clever reference to the form of the product. The pink powder does not hide a single bit of green tea inside. It is simply 100% natural, freeze-dried and powdered dragon fruit.

Dragon fruit – taste, colour, and uses

Before the pink powder ends up in your favourite cup, it starts its journey as an extremely phenomenal, exotic plant. Pitaya, commonly known precisely as dragon fruit, is actually the edible fruit of several cactus species. It owes its nickname to its amazing appearance – it resembles a large, pink sphere with characteristic, green scales. Inside, it can hide flesh that is white or intensely red-pink in colour – in both cases packed with tiny, edible, black seeds. It is exactly this second variety that is used for the production of pink matcha.

Where does this insane, natural pigment come from? Betacyanins are responsible for everything. Modern scientific literature confirms that pitaya (especially the one with intense colouring) is a rich source of betacyanins. These are powerful antioxidants that give the plant a captivating colour, while also exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties and protecting our cells against free radicals. That is precisely why the pink powder is so eagerly used as a one hundred percent natural food colouring in modern gastronomy!

💬 Scientific source: D. F. Nishikito et al., Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Other Health Effects of Dragon Fruit and Potential Delivery Systems for Its Bioactive Compounds, Pharmaceutics, 2023.

Dragon fruit matcha – how is the pink beverage made?

Since we already know what is hidden in the powder, the question arises: how to turn it into a delicious, Instagram-worthy beverage? The process of preparing a beverage from dragon fruit matcha is trivially simple and largely overlaps with the traditional ritual. Simply pour a small portion of the fruit powder into a bowl or cup, pour over a small amount of warm (but not boiling) water and mix thoroughly. It is best to use a traditional bamboo chasen whisk or a handy, electric milk frother for this purpose. When the powder blends perfectly with the water, creating a velvety, neon base, just add your favourite frothed milk (in the hot version) or cold milk and ice cubes (in the version for hot days). Visual effect guaranteed!

Does pink matcha contain caffeine?

Just as in the case of the Clitoria ternatea version, the answer to this question will certainly please relaxation lovers and people with a sensitive nervous system. Pink matcha does not contain caffeine in its composition. Since not a single leaf of the Camellia sinensis bush is added to it, this beverage does not stimulate the body into sudden action. While classic green tea is a powerful energy boost, ideal for waking up first thing in the morning, a fruity latte made of dragon fruit is a mild and completely caffeine-free option. Therefore, it constitutes a fantastic, photogenic alternative for pregnant women, for children fascinated by colourful drinks, and for anyone who fancies a beautiful liquid dessert just before going to sleep.

Pink matcha – what does it taste like and what to combine it with?

If you are afraid that the flavour profile of pink matcha will be as bright and flashy as its appearance, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Freeze-dried dragon fruit in powder form is characterised by a very light, mild, and pleasant taste. It is naturally delicately sweet, refreshing, and fruity – many gourmets describe its aroma as a tropical cross between kiwi, pear, and watermelon.

Thanks to its subtlety, pink matcha is an incredibly graceful ingredient in the kitchen. What is best to combine it with?

Pink matcha made from dragon fruit is undoubtedly an ideal choice for anyone who loves fruity notes and desires to introduce a bit of exotic, neon madness into their kitchen. However, our fairy-tale journey does not end with blue and pink. If you are looking for something with a deep, truly royal colour and an even more dessert-like character, it's time to leave the floral and fruity vibes behind and immerse yourself in the culinary tradition of the Philippines. Ahead of us is a third, extremely intriguing proposition – we are taking a closer look at a sweet root vegetable that has won the hearts of pastry chefs all over the world with its properties and colour. It's time to check what purple matcha hides inside!

Purple matcha – ube powder

The final stop on our colourful journey is purple matcha. We leave behind subtle flowers and juicy fruits to take a closer look at a plant that has absolutely reigned supreme in Asian desserts for years. Like its blue and pink sisters, the purple version is a "matcha" solely in name and the form it has been processed into. Its heart is a sweet root vegetable with a stunning, royal colour.

What is ube and how does it differ from a sweet potato?

Answering a very frequently asked question: what is ube exactly? In botanical literature, ube is known as the purple yam (Lat. Dioscorea alata). It is a species of edible tuber with a characteristic purple flesh. This plant originally hails from the Philippines, and it is there that it is most deeply rooted in culinary tradition. It is worth noting a very important geographical fact here, however – although the Philippine origin of this plant is undeniable and it conquered the world from there, today it is successfully cultivated in many regions of Asia.

Very often, ube is lumped together with another vegetable – to such an extent that on the internet you can find it under the name purple sweet potato. The classic sweet potato in botanical nomenclature is Ipomoea batatas. From a botanical and culinary point of view, however, these are two completely different species. True, both vegetables gain their beautiful colour thanks to a high content of similar antioxidants, but ube stands out with a much sweeter, more dessert-like flavour profile and usually a deep, dark colour in shades of purple.

Purple matcha – how is it made and what does it taste like?

The production process of this unique powder in no way falls short of the natural methods used for other colourful variants. Raw ube tubers are thoroughly washed, prepared, and then subjected to a drying process (most often freeze-drying, which preserves all the nutritional values and original colour). At the very end, the dried product is very finely ground. This is how fluffy, light purple matcha is created, which, when combined with liquid, forms a uniform, thick mousse.

And what does it all taste like? It is a real treat for sweet fans! While classic green matcha is savoury, and pink matcha is fruity, ube matcha is pure dessert. Its aroma is extremely creamy, naturally sweet, with clearly perceptible notes of vanilla, pistachio, and white chocolate. It simply begs to be used in sweet recipes!

Ube matcha and its properties

Finally, let's look at what the purple vegetable has to offer our body. It is worth remembering that ube is largely starch and fibre, which makes it a very nutritious and filling ingredient. From a health perspective, however, the greatest treasure of this plant is its pigment. As comprehensive scientific reviews show, purple yams are naturally saturated with anthocyanins (mainly from the cyanidin group). Just as with Clitoria ternatea or dragon fruit, these are powerful antioxidants that protect the body and support its natural defence mechanisms in the fight against oxidative stress.

💬 Scientific source: A. Adomėnienė, P. R. Venskutonis, Dioscorea spp.: Comprehensive Review of Antioxidant Properties and Their Relation to Phytochemicals and Health Benefits, Molecules, 2022.

And what about stimulation? The answer is: zero caffeine! This purple, delicious liquid dessert in no way stimulates the nervous system. Any pleasant energy boost you feel after drinking an ube latte will come solely from the natural, complex carbohydrates contained in the vegetable, and not from a stimulating substance.

Is colourful matcha really matcha?

At the beginning of our article, we already revealed the main secret: from a botanical point of view, the colourful variants have nothing to do with traditional tea. So why do producers, baristas, and culinary enthusiasts around the world stubbornly call them "matcha"? The answer lies in the natural evolution of language and contemporary trends.

Notice that the word "matcha" has slowly stopped meaning exclusively a specific type of tea in pop culture, and has become a universal term for the form of a product and the ritual of its preparation. This works on a very similar principle to the term "milk" – although by definition it comes from animals, today we commonly and colloquially use it in relation to oat, soy, or almond drinks. In the culinary world, the word "matcha" has become synonymous with a very finely ground, plant-based powder with a natural composition, from which a beverage is prepared by vigorously frothing it with water. It is simply an incredibly convenient mental shortcut that immediately tells us what is hidden in the jar and how it should be used.

Classic matcha vs blue matcha, pink matcha, and purple matcha

Since you already know why blue, pink, and purple powders deserve their honourable names, it's time to gather all the acquired knowledge in one place. To make your choice as easy as possible and organise the most important information, we have prepared a short cheat sheet. Thanks to it, you will evaluate the differences between the original Japanese tea and its colourful plant-based alternatives at a glance.

As you can see in the comparison above, each version has its unique superpowers. Regardless of whether you need caffeine support before a difficult day at work or are looking for a healthy way to colour a birthday cake cream, you will certainly find something for yourself. However, before you click "add to basket", you need to know what to look out for when shopping. Unfortunately, not every colourful powder available on the market deserves your attention.

How to choose a good colourful matcha?

The decision is made – you want to invite a bit of colour into your kitchen! Before you add a product to your basket, however, make sure you choose wisely. The growing popularity of rainbow beverages means that more and more products appear on the market that have little to do with the true magic of nature. What should you look out for to buy a top-quality product?

• ✔️ 100% nature in the composition: a good colourful matcha is a so-called clean label product. The composition should contain only one ingredient (e.g. 100% powdered dragon fruit). Absolutely avoid mixtures in which white sugar, glucose syrup, milk powder, or cheap fillers reign supreme in the first place.
• ✔️ Beware of artificial colourings: the true strength of blue, pink, and purple matcha lies in plant pigments (anthocyanins and betacyanins). Unfortunately, some manufacturers cut corners by offering cheap powders tinted with synthetic dyes. Always verify the label to make sure the colour comes straight from nature!
• ✔️ Degree of grinding: a high-quality product is characterised by a silky, powdery form – it is as fine as dust. Only appropriately powdered plants will perfectly combine with water, creating a velvety and smooth beverage.

And speaking of smooth consistency – to fully enjoy a perfectly prepared beverage without unappetising lumps floating around, it is worth equipping yourself with the right tools. Although colourful powders are not tea, they are prepared in exactly the same way as the Japanese original! A traditional bamboo chasen whisk or a good frother is an absolute must. If you are just starting your adventure, be sure to visit the Matcha sets category in our shop. There you will find a wide selection of professional accessory sets that will work fantastically for colourful alternatives, as well as beautiful gift packages containing your favourite powders in a duo with essential utensils.

Which colourful matcha is worth trying?

You already know what colourful matchas are made of, what they taste like, and what makes their colours so phenomenal. The most important question remains: which one to start your colourful adventure with? The choice is not easy at all, because each of these plant-based proposals tempts with something completely different. It all depends on what flavours you are looking for and what effect you want to achieve in your cup (or on your plate).

Blue, pink, or purple – which one to choose for a start?

To make the final decision easier for you, we have prepared a small hint based on the most common culinary preferences:

• ✔️ blue matcha (Clitoria ternatea) is a bullseye if you prefer very delicate, neutral, and slightly herbal notes. It is also an absolute must-have if you are planning a party and want to surprise your guests with a magical, colour-changing lemonade!
• ✔️ pink matcha (dragon fruit) will be an ideal choice for lovers of fruity, refreshing, and subtly sweet flavours. If you love the addition of coconut milk and exotic, tropical vibes, this neon pitaya will definitely steal your heart.
• ✔️ purple matcha (ube) is, in turn, a proposition for the biggest sweet tooths. Choose it if you are looking for a deep, dessert-like, almost pastry-like profile with a distinct hint of vanilla and nuts.

Caffeine-free colourful matcha – who is it a good choice for?

The lack of caffeine is one of the most important and appreciated features of colourful powders. Although classic green tea is a wonderful, healthy substitute for coffee, not everyone can (or wants to) reach for stimulants on a daily basis. Colourful matcha is a 100% natural, plant-based product that does not stimulate or burden the nervous system. Who will it be a perfect choice for then?

• ✔️ For people sensitive to caffeine, in whom traditional coffee or strong tea causes unpleasant jitteriness, anxiety, or stomach discomfort.
• ✔️ For fans of blissful evening rituals. If you love to relax after a hard day with a warm, delicious latte in your hand, but fear insomnia – colourful variants will play this role perfectly.
• ✔️ For anyone looking for a photogenic, healthy alternative to coffee that not only tastes wonderful but also looks like a small work of art in the cup.

As you can see, the world of colourful matcha is a place full of magic, extraordinary flavours, and pro-health plant properties. Although from a botanical point of view, these powders have nothing to do with Japanese green tea, they have successfully adopted its form to please our eyes and palates. Do not be afraid to experiment in your kitchen, boldly mix colours, create phenomenal desserts, and discover your favourite shade of nature!

Ready for a culinary adventure? Mix, create, and enjoy the magic of colours every day!

❓ FAQ – frequently asked questions about colourful matcha

Sources of information:

1. Wikipedia: Matcha, Clitoria ternatea, Pitaya, Dioscorea alata.
2. D. F. Nishikito et al., Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Other Health Effects of Dragon Fruit and Potential Delivery Systems for Its Bioactive Compounds, Pharmaceutics, 2023.
3. A. Adomėnienė, P. R. Venskutonis, Dioscorea spp.: Comprehensive Review of Antioxidant Properties and Their Relation to Phytochemicals and Health Benefits, Molecules, 2022.
4. E. J. Jeyaraj et al., Extraction methods of butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea) flower and biological activities of its phytochemicals, Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2021.
5. J. Kochman et al., Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review, Molecules, 2020.