Japanese Sweets and Snacks: Mochi Ice Cream, Green Tea Ice Cream
Product Categories
Available Products
Ceremonial Quality Matcha
Universal Quality Matcha
Culinary Quality Matcha
Sen-cha
Houji-cha
Genmai-cha
Gyokuro
Sen-cha Tea Bags
Houji-cha Tea Bags
Genmai-cha Tea Bags
Loose Leaf Bulk
Tea Bag Bulk
Powder Bulk
Matcha Bowls
Tea Pots
Tea Cups
Utensils
Tea Canisters
Mochi Ice Cream
Green Tea Ice Cream
Maeda-en is a premier Japanese tea company headquartered in Irvine, California, with a legacy rooted in traditional Japanese tea cultivation and a mission to bring authentic green tea experiences to the global market. Established as a U.S. extension of a historic Japanese tea heritage, Maeda-en is renowned for its wide array of matcha, loose-leaf teas, tea bags, and Japanese sweets that emphasize quality, tradition, and innovation.
Core Business and Product Offerings
Maeda-en operates as a vertically integrated importer, wholesaler, and distributor of premium Japanese teas and tea-related products across North America. The company maintains deep connections with tea farms in Japan, ensuring the authenticity and freshness of every product.
Key Product Categories:
Matcha (Green Tea Powder):
Ceremonial Quality Matcha: Ideal for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies
Universal Quality Matcha: Versatile for both drinking and light culinary use
Culinary Quality Matcha: Formulated for baking, lattes, and desserts
Loose Leaf Teas:
Sen-cha: Lightly steamed green tea, Japan’s most common tea
Houji-cha: Roasted green tea with a rich aroma
Genmai-cha: Blend of green tea with roasted brown rice
Gyokuro: Shade-grown premium green tea with umami depth
Tea Bags:
Individually wrapped and bulk Sen-cha, Houji-cha, and Genmai-cha options
Bulk Products:
Commercial-grade matcha and loose leaf teas for foodservice and manufacturers
Teaware and Accessories:
Authentic chawan (matcha bowls), whisks, teapots, cups, and storage canisters
Japanese Sweets & Snacks:
Mochi Ice Cream: Kyoto-style ice cream desserts in matcha and assorted flavors
Green Tea Ice Cream: Made using Maeda-en’s proprietary matcha powder
Maeda-en products are distributed across retail outlets, online marketplaces, Asian supermarkets, cafés, and specialty foodservice operations.
Specialization and Unique Value Proposition
Maeda-en distinguishes itself as one of the few vertically integrated Japanese tea brands operating in the U.S., offering authentic and full-spectrum green tea products. Key competitive advantages include:
Direct Sourcing from Japan: All teas are grown, harvested, and processed in Japan under traditional methods
Matcha Expertise: Offers one of the most diverse matcha product lines in the U.S. market
Heritage & Education: Promotes the art of Japanese tea through educational content, recipes, and ceremonial teaware
B2B & Retail Integration: Serves both individual consumers and large-scale commercial clients, including restaurants, bakeries, and ice cream producers
Financial and Market Presence
Although Maeda-en is privately held and does not disclose financial statements, it commands a significant presence in the North American Japanese tea segment:
Distributed through major chains including Mitsuwa Marketplace, Nijiya Market, and H Mart
Available on global platforms such as Amazon, iHerb, and Yamibuy
Recognized as a category leader in matcha and traditional Japanese teas within Asian foodservice distribution networks
Its strong presence in the Asian specialty retail and B2B manufacturing sectors indicates high-volume throughput and consistent demand.
Export and Shipment Activity
While based in the United States, Maeda-en’s products are regularly exported to international regions via distributors and direct online orders:
Export destinations include Canada, Mexico, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the UK
According to trade intelligence sources, Maeda-en records regular shipments of matcha and green tea powders under HS Codes 0902 and 2101
Active in both B2C exports (online) and B2B global partnerships for matcha ingredients
Target Market
Maeda-en serves a wide and evolving customer base:
Traditional Tea Drinkers: Customers seeking ceremonial-grade Japanese teas
Culinary Professionals: Bakers, chefs, and food producers requiring high-quality matcha
Health-Conscious Consumers: Attracted to matcha's antioxidants, L-theanine, and natural energy
The company also actively engages with consumers exploring wellness, mindfulness, and Japanese cultural traditions.
Capabilities and Infrastructure
U.S. Distribution Headquarters: Located in Irvine, California, with warehousing and logistics operations
Integrated Supply Chain: From Japanese farm to U.S. shelf, ensuring traceability and quality
Private Label Capabilities: Offers co-packing and OEM solutions for tea and matcha under private labels
E-Commerce Fulfillment: Ships directly to consumers via online store and major platforms
Certifications and Compliance
Maeda-en ensures all products meet stringent food safety and sourcing standards:
USDA Organic Certified options available for selected matcha and tea lines
Non-GMO Verified on labeled items
HACCP-Compliant Facilities for handling, packaging, and storage
Kosher Certification on select items
These certifications reinforce the brand’s commitment to transparency, food safety, and ethical sourcing.
Customer Testimonials and Industry Recognition
Maeda-en receives consistent praise for product quality, flavor integrity, and cultural authenticity:
"Best matcha powder I’ve found in North America. Smooth and vibrant." – Verified Buyer, Amazon
"Our pastry team swears by their Culinary Matcha for mochi cakes and mousse." – Bakery Chain Owner, California
"Authentic taste, beautiful packaging, and true to Japanese traditions." – Tea Retailer, New York
Maeda-en has been featured in publications and food blogs focused on Japanese cuisine, wellness, and premium beverage trends.
Major Achievements
Introduced the U.S. market to affordable, foodservice-grade Japanese matcha in bulk formats
Developed proprietary blends for cafés and dessert brands across North America
Launched digital content campaigns promoting traditional matcha recipes and tea education
Participated in Japanese cultural festivals and tea expos to promote the art of tea
With a legacy of quality, deep ties to Japan’s tea culture, and a commitment to innovation, Maeda-en continues to lead the Japanese tea category in North America and beyond, bringing the essence of Japanese tea to every cup, bowl, and dessert it touches.
