Is matcha the ultimate coffee alternative, or just another wellness fad? In this episode, Andrew Kojima - aka Chef Koj - an expert in Japanese cuisine, and Professor Tim Spector, a world-leading scientist in nutrition and gut health, explore whether matcha is truly a healthier choice than coffee. Chef Koj explains the rich history behind matcha, its role in Japanese culture, and why it has become a global wellness trend. Tim breaks down the latest science on matcha’s impact on metabolism, brain function, and gut health, comparing its effects to those of coffee.For listeners curious about incorporating matcha into their daily routine, this episode includes a practical guide on how to prepare matcha properly. Koj demonstrates the traditional method of whisking matcha and shares tips on avoiding common mistakes. For those new to matcha, he also explains how to make a simple and delicious matcha latte for beginners. The episode concludes with a tasting of Koj’s matcha custard dessert, showing how matcha’s umami-rich flavor can be used in unexpected ways. Could matcha actually help curb sugar cravings and build a taste for more complex flavors? 🥑 Make smarter food choices. Become a member at zoe.com - 10% off with code PODCAST🌱 Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30+Follow ZOE on Instagram.Timecodes00:00 Healthier than coffee?02:15 Listener questions03:17 What is matcha?05:59 The same as green tea?09:33 History of matcha10:20 Industry marketing tricks11:55 Why the west loves coffee12:55 Does matcha make you alert?14:42 How caffeine levels differ16:53 Does matcha contain fiber?21:37 Health benefits of matcha 25:10 Truth about iced matcha latte 28:59 Perfect matcha demonstration41:55 Flavour profile of matcha43:53 How to add matcha to food44:35 Matcha dessert ideas46:45 Expensive vs cheap matcha47:33 Should you add milk?Get Chef Koj's book 'No Sushi' here📚Books by our ZOE ScientistsThe Food For Life CookbookEvery Body Should Know This by Dr Federica AmatiFood For Life by Prof. Tim Spector🍵 Chef Koj's perfect matcha kit:Bamboo Matcha Whisk & Scoop Organic Japanese Matcha Green Tea PowderMatcha Bowl Studies referenced for today's episodeEffect of in vitro digestion-fermentation on green and roasted coffee bioactivity: The role of the gut microbiota, 2019, Food ChemistryMatcha Green Tea: Chemical Composition, Phenolic Acids, Caffeine and Fatty Acid Profile, 2024, FoodsAnti-Stress, Behavioural and Magnetoencephalography Effects of an l-Theanine-Based Nutrient Drink: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Trial, 2016, NutrientsHave feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here.Episode transcripts are available here.