How to store matcha properly

Matcha is more delicate than most teas. It degrades quickly when exposed to air, light, heat, or moisture. Proper storage keeps it fresh longer.

The Basics

Matcha’s enemies:

1. Air — Causes oxidation
2. Light — Breaks down color and flavor
3. Heat — Accelerates degradation
4. Moisture — Causes clumping and spoilage
5. Strong smells — Matcha absorbs odors

Protect against all five for best results.

How to Store Matcha

Before Opening

Unopened matcha lasts longest. Store it:

• In its original packaging (if opaque and sealed)
• In a cool, dark place
• Or in the refrigerator (ideal)
• Away from strong-smelling foods

After Opening

Once you break the seal, the clock starts. Best practices:

1. Keep it airtight — Use the tin it came in, or transfer to an airtight container
2. Minimize air exposure — Open briefly, close quickly, push out excess air
3. Store in the refrigerator — Cold slows oxidation
4. Keep it dark — Even in the fridge, keep it in an opaque container
5. Use it — Don’t save it for “special occasions” — it’s losing freshness every day

Refrigerator Storage Tips

Refrigerating matcha extends freshness, but do it right:

When putting matcha in the fridge:

• Use an airtight container (condensation is the enemy)
• Keep away from strong-smelling foods
• Let the container come to room temperature before opening (prevents condensation)

When removing matcha from the fridge:

• Take out only what you need, or
• Let the whole container warm to room temperature before opening
• Opening cold matcha allows moisture to condense on the powder

Container Options

Container	Good For	Notes
Original tin	Short-term (1-2 months)	Works if it reseals well
Small airtight tin	Short-term	Good option
Vacuum-sealed container	Longer term	Best for extending freshness
Glass jar	Not recommended	Unless it’s opaque and airtight
Zip-lock bag	Temporary only	Push out air, but not ideal

What Not to Do

• Don’t leave it on the counter — Light and heat will degrade it
• Don’t store near the stove — Too warm
• Don’t leave the lid off — Oxidation starts immediately
• Don’t store in clear containers — Light damage
• Don’t freeze it — Freezing can damage texture; refrigerator is cold enough
• Don’t store near fish, onions, etc. — It will absorb the smells

Signs of Poor Storage

If you notice:

• Faded color — Oxidation
• Weak smell — Losing freshness
• Clumping — Moisture exposure
• Off odors — Absorbed smells or spoilage

…your storage method (or the matcha’s age) is the problem.

Quick Reference

Storage Location	Unopened	Opened
Room temp (cool, dark)	6+ months	1 month
Refrigerator	1+ year	1-2 months

These are guidelines — quality degrades gradually, not suddenly.