Is Matcha Acidic? pH 5.6--6.3, Explained With Sources
The direct answer: matcha is mildly acidic
Brewed matcha has a pH of 5.6--6.3. This is based on peer-reviewed research published in Najman et al., Molecules (2023) (2023). pH 7 is neutral. Anything below 7 is acidic. Matcha is always acidic -- it is not alkaline or neutral.
However, matcha is significantly less acidic than coffee. Brewed coffee typically measures pH 4.85--5.1. Because pH is a logarithmic scale, a difference of 1 pH unit represents a 10-fold difference in acidity. Matcha at pH 6.0 is roughly 10 times less acidic than coffee at pH 5.0.
Matcha pH vs coffee pH vs neutral
pH scale is logarithmic. Each unit = 10x difference in acidity. Matcha source: Najman et al., Molecules (2023) (2023).
Why is matcha less acidic than coffee?
Coffee contains high concentrations of organic acids -- primarily chlorogenic acids, quinic acid, citric acid, and malic acid -- that are extracted during brewing. These acids are formed during roasting and extracted by hot water.
Matcha contains fewer of these organic acids. Green tea leaves are not roasted, which means the chlorogenic acid degradation products that form during coffee roasting are not present. Matcha does contain some organic acids (primarily gallic acid and catechin-related acids), but at lower concentrations than coffee.
Additionally, matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that does not affect pH but may buffer some of the physiological effects of caffeine. L-theanine does not make matcha alkaline -- it is a separate compound from the acids that determine pH.
Does matcha cause acid reflux?
Matcha is less acidic than coffee, which may make it easier to tolerate for people with acid reflux. However, matcha still contains caffeine, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and potentially worsen reflux symptoms in susceptible individuals.
Disclaimer: This is general nutritional information, not medical advice. If you have GERD or chronic acid reflux, consult a qualified healthcare provider before changing your diet.
Is matcha alkaline? No -- and here is why that claim is wrong
Some sources claim matcha is alkaline or has an alkalizing effect on the body. This is not supported by published pH measurements. Brewed matcha measures pH 5.6--6.3, which is below the neutral point of pH 7. Alkaline means pH above 7.
The “alkalizing” claim sometimes refers to the concept of dietary acid-base balance, which is a different (and contested) concept from the pH of the beverage itself. The pH of matcha as a beverage is 5.6--6.3 -- mildly acidic, not alkaline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is matcha acidic or alkaline?
Matcha is mildly acidic. Brewed matcha has a pH of 5.6--6.3 according to peer-reviewed research (Najman et al., Molecules (2023), 2023). Anything below pH 7 is acidic. Matcha is less acidic than coffee but it is not alkaline or neutral.
What is the pH of matcha?
Brewed matcha has a pH of 5.6--6.3. This is based on peer-reviewed research: Najman et al., Molecules (2023) (2023). The exact pH can vary slightly depending on water quality, matcha grade, and preparation method.
Is matcha less acidic than coffee?
Yes. Brewed matcha (pH 5.6--6.3) is less acidic than brewed coffee (pH 4.85--5.1). Because pH is logarithmic, a difference of 1 pH unit represents a 10-fold difference in acidity. Matcha is meaningfully less acidic than coffee, but both are acidic beverages.
Does matcha cause acid reflux?
Matcha is less acidic than coffee, which may make it easier to tolerate for people with acid reflux. However, matcha still contains caffeine, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and potentially worsen reflux symptoms in susceptible individuals. We do not claim matcha treats or prevents acid reflux. If you have GERD or chronic acid reflux, consult a healthcare provider.
Is matcha alkaline?
No. Matcha is not alkaline. Brewed matcha has a pH of 5.6--6.3, which is below the neutral point of pH 7. Alkaline means pH above 7. Matcha is mildly acidic, not alkaline or neutral. Claims that matcha is alkaline are not supported by published pH measurements.
Does matcha powder affect pH differently than brewed matcha?
The pH values cited here (5.6--6.3) are for brewed matcha -- matcha powder dissolved in water. Dry matcha powder has a different pH than the brewed beverage. The brewed pH is the relevant value for understanding how matcha affects your body when consumed.