New to matcha...is irradiation a concern?

It simply depends on where you source from. Japan has severely limited what levels of radiation they are allowing to be exported. I have heard that Uji is safe, along with many providences in southern Japan. The other side is purchasing matcha that was picked and processed prior to the incident. I know that all of the matcha we have ordered was picked and processed prior to the incident. -Arthur

This is an excellant question. I would like to think Japan is being ever responsible with food stuff exports. But we all know it is our responsiblity to double check.
Side note – I read an article today describing the different mutations now presenting in the butterfly population around the leak site. Such a tragedy.

Good Lord I am just getting into matcha and I had no idea about this.

Hi,
This is a concern for us as sellers as well as our customers. The best way is to ask the store you purchase your matcha from if they have any information on where, when and how matcha was tested. Our supplier does regular updates if requested and copy of the tests if available. You’d be happy to know that Japan has even more strict requirements when it comes to food than USA and if it passes there, it’s no problem here at all. We have already been asked at least a dozen times to show proof off the test and if you are a legitimate store, showing the proof should be no problem.
Also a note on the “old” supply of Matcha. Green tea powder does not spoil as milk or some other food, but ask you self, do you prefer a fresh matcha or an old one? Also, the larger suppliers that have a constant supply of matcha sell them rather on regular basis and do not keep in stock 1 year or older matcha. Find a place that sells fresh matcha, and if you are not sure about radiation, ask for some proof. Don’t be afraid! Stores that have nothing to hide will not avoid this, but rather welcome a chance to prove to you that their matcha is fresh and “does not glow at night” due to radiation :-)