MatchaKo announced the launch of its first ready-to-drink (RTD) premium matcha drink that is certified organic, Non-GMO Project Verified and vegan.

MatchaKo is a low-calorie alternative to sugary drinks that is both certified organic and non-GMO verified using the highest-quality ingredients including ceremonial grade matcha sourced from Japan, it says.

Founded by Mark Missirlian in 2021 with a mission to provide consumers with the best matcha, MatchaKo’s ceremonial grade matcha is sourced from the Kagoshima region of Japan, a region known for its volcanic soil, the company says. Working with farmers and a production team with more than 70 years of experience, MatchaKo’s matcha leaves are nurtured in a healthy soil with powerful minerals, producing large volumes of flavorful green tea leaves ideal for matcha production, it adds.

“My journey started during the pandemic lockdown, when I started making my own matcha at home, which is a tedious process that involves special tools and expensive tins of matcha,” said Missirlian, founder and CEO of MatchaKo, in a statement. “I tried finding a more convenient option in stores, which are too sugary and contain low quality matcha, or online, and there was nothing that met my expectations in terms of quality and use of clean ingredients. It was then that I was determined to provide an option for a simple, yet high-quality product to bring to consumers.”

MatchaKo’s ready-to-drink beverage is available in four varieties — Original Unsweetened, Matcha Lemonade, Oat Milk Matcha Latte, Almond Milk Matcha Latte, or a Variety Pack that provides two flavors of each variety — all sold in 7.5-ounce cans in packs of eight.

MatchaKo is available to purchase nationwide with free shipping on all orders through the company’s online store and at select stores in Southern California. In 2023, the company plans to expand its presence in the Southwest region of the United States and with in-store sales at select retailers in New York City, it says.

www.matchako.com