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Clearspring has expanded its Japanese tea portfolio with the launch of Organic Japanese Hojicha Powder, tapping into growing consumer demand for speciality tea beverages and café-inspired drinks.

The new product joins the company's existing Hojicha loose-leaf and teabag range and builds on the success of its Organic Matcha collection. Crafted from organically grown green tea leaves that are harvested, roasted and finely ground in Japan, the powder offers a roasted flavour profile with lower caffeine levels than traditional green tea.

According to Clearspring, the roasting process gives the tea a smooth, mellow taste with nutty, smoky notes and hints of caramel and cocoa. The powder is designed for multiple applications, including Hojicha lattes, hot tea, smoothies, ice cream and bakery products.

The company believes the category has significant growth potential as Hojicha-based drinks gain traction in UK cafés, mirroring the rise of matcha in recent years.

Maria Dawson, managing director at Clearspring, said: "We're beyond excited to introduce a powdered version of our Organic Japanese Hojicha, a delicious, versatile green tea with a wonderfully smooth roasted flavour. I truly believe Japanese Hojicha Powder has the potential to take off globally just like matcha has, and soon many more people will be joining the Clearspring family to discover its unique flavour and comforting qualities."

Organic Japanese Hojicha Powder is launching on Ocado this month, ahead of a wider UK retail rollout from July, with an RRP of £8.99.

Founded in 1993, Clearspring specialises in organic Japanese and plant-based foods, with a portfolio of more than 300 products. The company said the latest launch aligns with its focus on authentic production methods, organic agriculture and expanding consumer access to traditional Japanese ingredients.