RESEARCH
New science supports the use Japanese matcha in functional foods, beverages and powders
Published study finds ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha enhances cognition and reaction times
Matcha is more than a unique and trendy flavor. New research explains why it may soon be a sought-after functional ingredient. A published human study has found that Japanese ceremonial-grade matcha helps ease mild stress-related cognitive decline and improves reaction time among a very important consumer demographic: young adults.
Researchers evaluated ceremonial-grade matcha’s benefits for young adults
Earlier studies found that daily matcha intake improves attention and executive function in adults middle-aged or older. For this placebo-controlled study, published in Science Direct, researchers in Japan assessed its value for younger adults.
The researchers recruited 42 participants ages 25 to 34 years, who consumed 2 grams of ITO EN’s ceremonial-grade matcha daily for two weeks. After completing tests designed to induce mild, acute psychological stress, participants’ memory, attention, reaction times and other criteria were evaluated.
Results indicated that participants who consumed ceremonial-grade matcha daily had higher attentional function than the placebo group, leading researchers to conclude that the interaction between caffeine and theanine naturally present in the matcha, produces a positive effect on cognitive function in young adults during or after stress conditions.
Taiyo International and ITO En Partnership
Taiyo International has partnered with green tea industry powerhouse ITO EN, to supply sustainable high-quality matcha to the food, beverage and supplement industries in North America.