Is Mercadona Matcha Tea recommended?

Matcha Mercadona

Mercadona Matcha Tea, Cheap Matcha Tea?

He Matcha Tea Mercadona It presents itself as an affordable option for green tea lovers. Let's look at some key aspects:

1. Consumer Opinions :

After analyzing various forums and social media platforms where consumers share their experiences with Mercadona 's Hacendado brand Matcha Tea, we found a wide range of opinions. Some appreciate its value for money, while others mention that the quality could be improved. What we can confirm is that it is not a ceremonial Matcha Tea, but rather a culinary grade one.

Some customers are satisfied with the taste and texture, while others want a more authentic, higher quality matcha, since it is a matcha that cannot be consumed with just water, but must be mixed at least with milk so that its taste is not so bitter.

2. Sensory Analysis :

Shape, Color and Flavor of Mercadona Matcha :

Hacendado Matcha has a pale green color and a characteristic vegetal aroma. It also contains many lumps, which are clear indications that it undergoes an industrial and inappropriate milling process. 

Taste : The flavor in water starts with a rather bitter note, more characteristic of lower-quality matcha; it obviously doesn't reach the exquisite taste of ceremonial matcha. On the other hand, some users notice a slight bitterness. However, it's suitable for everyday preparations such as cakes, matcha lattes, or matcha tea smoothies.

3. Price and Presentation Comparison :

He Hacendado Matcha Tea It's one of the cheapest options available, which should give you a clue as to its origin; Thailand is considered a possible source. The product comes in convenient packaging, with 1.5 grams per individual sachet. It's ideal for those looking for an economical choice.

4. Origin and Process :

Matcha tea originated in China, although its tradition within the tea ceremony is Japanese. Hacendado Matcha is packaged in Spain, which in no way gives us any clue as to its origin . However, due to its low cost and poor quality, and considering that the author of this is an expert on the subject, having done a final year project related to Matcha Tea, the possibility is considered that it originates from Thailand and its process is entirely industrialized. Despite this, we want to specify how its traditional process works:

  1. Matcha is obtained from the leaves of the Sencha tea plant. These leaves are then ground in granite mills to be refined and subsequently sold as a powder.

  2. It should be stored at room temperature in a dry place protected from the sun, and usually has a shelf life of at least 1 year.

  3. Affordable Price : Customers consider that the Hacendado Matcha Tea It offers acceptable value for money, although we're pretty sure none of these customers are Chinese or Japanese, as their opinion would be very different. However, being a Mercadona product, it's very accessible if you want to buy matcha in Spain and have it immediately.

Matcha Zen: Superior Quality and Ceremonial Experience

Now, let's compare this with the Matcha Zen , a brand that stands out for its exceptional quality:

  • Matcha Quality : The Matcha Zen It is cultivated and processed with meticulous care. Its leaves are carefully selected and ground in granite mills, resulting in an ultra-fine powder. The result is a matcha with a smooth, sweet flavor and no bitterness. When you drink it, you are consuming 100% of the tea leaf, making it a complete experience. In addition to absorbing all its properties and minerals: L-theanine, catechins, fiber , vitamin C , selenium , chromium, zinc, magnesium , and chlorophyll .

  • Varieties : Matcha Zen It offers two main varieties:

    • Culinary Zen Matcha : Ideal for cooking and baking. Its flavor is more bitter, but it blends well in recipes. It can also be used for matcha lattes, although the most discerning palates prefer a ceremonial grade like ours.
    • Ceremonial Zen Matcha : Intended for the traditional tea ceremony, or simply enjoyed with water. It is more delicate, with a smooth and sweet flavor. Its vibrant green color and fine texture make it perfect for special occasions .

An important note about organic: Since matcha is ground and you drink the whole leaf, any cultivation residue ends up in your cup. That's why, whenever possible, prioritize certified organic matcha. It's a simple way to minimize unwanted pesticides and keep what you really want: L-theanine, catechins, and that clear energy boost you're looking for (PMC, 2020 ).

  1. Final Comparison :

    • Quality : The Matcha Zen Culinario already surpasses Hacendado Matcha Tea in quality, texture, and flavor, as well as in its properties. Not to mention the difference between organic and non-organic matcha tea.
    • Price : Although the Matcha Zen It is slightly more expensive, but its quality justifies the investment.
    • Quantity and Packaging : Both brands offer convenient presentations, with Mercadona Matcha containing 1.5g x 10 for a total of 150 grams, and Zen Culinario Matcha containing 100 grams, standing out for its elegant packaging.

Why settle for less? Zen Culinary Matcha offers superior quality that you won't find in Mercadona's matcha. With an authentic flavor and a traditional cultivation and milling process, it's perfect for your gourmet recipes and moments of relaxation.

Don't settle for less. Choose Culinary Zen Matcha quality.

Buy now and transform your matcha experience.