If it feels like everyone around you is suddenly sipping on a matcha latte, you’re not imagining it. From morning routines to midday pick-me-ups, matcha has become the green go-to for health-conscious caffeine seekers and Instagram lovers alike. But as the world falls in love with this vibrant powdered tea, suppliers are starting to feel the pinch—matcha stocks are depleting, and fast.

The reason? True, high-quality matcha is labor-intensive to produce. It’s made from shade-grown tea leaves that are carefully harvested, steamed, dried, and stone-ground—a process that takes time and skill, especially in traditional matcha-producing regions like Japan. With global demand booming and production limited by both tradition and climate, the balance is tipping. Some retailers are now reporting longer lead times and smaller shipments, while others are scrambling to find alternative sources or blend lower-grade matcha to keep up.

So what does this mean for your next iced oat matcha? It might be time to savour it a little more slowly. While the matcha craze shows no signs of slowing down, supply challenges are a gentle reminder to appreciate the craft behind the cup—and to support sustainable, authentic producers wherever you can. After all, the matcha moment isn’t just about the drink, but the story in every sip.

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