Matcha mania turns the green powder into gold

A recent surge in matcha’s popularity has led to a global matcha shortage, driven by soaring demand and limited production in Japan, where high-quality matcha is grown. Justin Sullivan | Getty Images News | Getty Images TOKYO — When Chitose Nagao retired after nearly three decades in advertising to start a matcha cafe, she never imagined lines…

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Coffee and tea prices ramp up due to tariffs

While last month’s consumer price index showed that food prices were effectively flat month over month, tariff-sensitive items like coffee beans, specialty teas and spices are showing signs of inflation, worrying small businesses selling those products. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, coffee prices surged 14.5% in July year over year. The average retail price…

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