Lead in Matcha: What the Lab Data Actually Shows
By Steady Matcha Editorial · Founder, Steady Matcha
Published April 15, 2026 · Updated June 1, 2026
Matcha can contain trace lead because the whole leaf is consumed. A 2023 Consumer Reports analysis found detectable lead in several brands. However, levels vary widely - brands from clean-soil Japanese regions with published third-party COAs consistently show the lowest levels. At 1-2 servings/day, most quality brands stay well below California Prop 65 limits.
How does lead get into matcha?
Tea plants absorb lead from soil and air pollution through their roots and leaves. Unlike brewed tea (where leaves are discarded), matcha involves consuming the entire ground leaf. Lead accumulation is higher in older leaves and in plants grown in polluted soil or near industrial areas. Japanese matcha from regions like Uji generally shows lower lead levels than Chinese-grown matcha.
Consumer Reports found detectable lead in several of 29 matcha/green tea products tested - Consumer Reports, 2023
California Prop 65 lead MADL: 0.5 micrograms/day - California OEHHA, 2023
How much lead is safe in matcha?
California's Prop 65 sets a Maximum Allowable Dose Level (MADL) for lead at 0.5 micrograms per day. At a standard 2g serving, a matcha with 0.04 micrograms per gram would deliver 0.08 micrograms total - well below the 0.5 microgram daily limit. Steady Matcha publishes its full batch COA at /testing once results are received from the lab.
California Prop 65 lead MADL: 0.5 micrograms per day - California OEHHA, 2023
EU MRL for lead in tea: 5mg/kg - European Food Safety Authority, 2023
“Consumers should look for brands that provide third-party lab test results showing specific heavy metal levels, not just a general tested claim.”
- Consumer Reports food safety team, 2023
Ready to make the switch?
Steady Matcha - ceremonial grade, Uji Japan, every batch lab-tested. Pre-order the founding batch.
Pre-order - $38Frequently Asked Questions
References
- Lead and cadmium in matcha and green tea products - Consumer Reports (2023)
- California Prop 65 - Lead MADL - California OEHHA (2023)
- Steady Matcha Testing Page (COA published at launch) - Steady Matcha (2026)
Last reviewed: