Ube and matcha marvelling millions

Friday, 15 May 2026 12:13

By Daisy Sheena

Two new flavours have captivated beverage drinkers. Are ube and matcha the next best-sellers in coffee shops?

What is ube?

Ube is notorious for its purple pigmentation. This has struck many Starbucks and Costa enthusiasts, from its appetising appearance. Even though it has only recently rapidly gained more attention, ube has existed throughout history. Ube is synonym for the purple yam, this is a consumable tuber plant. Originally, ube came from the Philippines and has versatile usage. From ice cream to cake to coffee, the purple delight is used in endless platters. Initially the use of ube in beverages, began to become more popularised from some coffee chains like, Black Sheep Coffee and Pret.

What does ube taste like?

Ube's taste is known in diverse ways. It has been described as: creamy, vanillary and moderately sweet. Although one flavour stands out more than the rest. Majoritively, ube is stated as nutty. Around the UK, ube is being desired and craved more by the day. Recently, it has been titled as the "drink of the year."

Image of ube.

What is matcha?

Matcha is known for its striking green tone. The taste of matcha has raptured Gen Z significantly. It is made from green tea leaves and was initially used in Japanese ceremonies. Matcha's prominent green shade is due to the high amount of chloroplasts. Marvellously, matcha has high volumes of antioxidants. This helps mitigate cell damage and the likelihood of other diseases. Like ube it is a versatile use, whilst it can be found in: teas, lattes and other types of popular beverages.

What does matcha taste like?

Matcha's flavour is unique. It is described as having a natural and earthy essence, this contributes to its bohemian image. Gen Z's craze over matcha roots from its wellness benefits, to the mind and the body.

Image of matcha.

Which beverage is more popular?

Matcha is dubbed as more popular than ube currently. In 2025, reports from FT stated that British matcha revenue was around £46 million. This doubled from the year previous and it is predicted to increase in the 2030's. Similarly, the value of ube increased last year. Reportedly, a global demand for the flavour reached $3.06 million. However, recent concerns have been uncovered about the farmers managing demand. Ube can only be harvested after 11 months and farmers struggle to keep up with demand. Whilst the urgency of ube grows, the pressures on the environment and the farmers face deserve recognition.

The coffee-clusion

Overall, matcha and ube are being craved world-wide. They can be found in endless coffee chains like Starbucks and Costa. Many small businesses around your local area will provide them, just look at their menu. Lately supermarkets like Asda have caught on the trend and have been selling them. Wherever you are, there is a strong certainty that matcha and ube are nearby.

-Written by Daisy Sheena- Devote Radio Journalist.

More Information and Sources.

Extra information

Ube

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zmpcywx

https://rollingstonephilippines.com/culture/food/ube-rising-global-demand-philippines/

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https://stories.starbucks.com/emea/stories/2026/new-ube-platform-for-spring-2026/

Matcha

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zdt8vj6-

health-benefits-matcha-

its-not-easy-being-green-inside-the-uks-matcha-boom