For years, coffee has been a favorite beverage for many people around the world. From strong espresso to creamy lattes, coffee seemed irreplaceable. But 2025 brought a big surprise: matcha surpassed coffee in popularity in many countries .
Matcha, a traditional Japanese green tea powder, is no longer just a traditional beverage. It has become a global trend, popular among young people, office workers, and even health-conscious individuals.
Global Matcha Trend
Data shows that matcha sales in the UK will double by 2025. In America and Europe, matcha-based drinks like iced matcha lattes and matcha lemonade have even become staples in many cafe menus. This trend is driven by several key factors, including Generation Z's preference for healthy and photogenic drinks, the role of social media in making matcha a modern lifestyle icon, and increasing health awareness that has led many people to switch from coffee to antioxidant-rich green tea.
Displaced Coffee
The two types of coffee most impacted are espresso and latte . Espresso, once a symbol of instant energy, is now losing popularity, perceived as too bitter and less suitable for those seeking an "Instagrammable" drink. Meanwhile, the latte, popular for its smooth texture and perfect for hanging out, is also starting to be pushed aside, as the bright green matcha latte is far more eye-catching on social media. While both types of coffee remain popular, trends show that matcha is now outselling some major cafes.
The Advantages of Matcha Compared to Coffee
Matcha has surpassed coffee in popularity due to its several advantages other beverages lack. Health- wise, matcha is rich in antioxidants, which help improve focus without the jitters of caffeine found in coffee. Aesthetically , its bright green color makes matcha more appealing to photograph and easily goes viral on social media.
Furthermore, matcha is incredibly versatile, allowing it to be prepared in a variety of ways, from matcha latte to matcha lemonade to matcha dessert. Equally important, matcha brings a touch of exotic Japanese tradition, adding unique value to consumers and transforming it into something more than just a regular beverage.
Matcha and a Healthy Lifestyle
Besides its appearance, matcha is also considered healthier than coffee. The L-theanine in matcha helps calm the mind, while the caffeine provides steady energy without the "crash" effect of coffee.
Many people are starting to replace their morning coffee habit with matcha because they feel more focused and less anxious.
Matcha on Social Media
One reason matcha is so popular is its appealing visuals . The bright green color makes matcha look fresh and unique in photos and videos. Many culinary and lifestyle influencers use matcha as a mainstay in their content.
Some cafes deliberately design their matcha menu with an artistic appearance to make it easier to go viral.
Future Predictions
Given the growing trend, there's a strong possibility that matcha will become a staple beverage in modern cafes, while coffee will remain, but more as a classic choice. Furthermore, matcha-based innovations are predicted to continue to expand, extending beyond beverages to food, ice cream, and even beauty products, further strengthening its position as a global lifestyle staple.
Conclusion
The year 2025 marks a new era in the beverage world. Matcha has surpassed espresso and latte in popularity , becoming the year's hottest beverage. With its combination of health, aesthetics, and culture, matcha is not just a passing trend but will likely endure as a global lifestyle.
