Even if two matcha tins both have the USDA seal, the quality can vary wildly. Organic certification is about growing practices, not taste or grade. A matcha can be organic but low-grade, harvested late in the season, with a bitter profile. Conversely, a high-quality ceremonial matcha might be organic, but it's not guaranteed by the seal.

When you're buying, don't just stop at 'organic.' Look for origin, harvest time, and grade. For BrewNova matcha, we source from specific farms and check both organic and quality markers. But for any brand, ask questions.