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We’ve almost completed the formulation for our next blend! It’s super exciting. Ahead of this, we thought we would share a little bit more about the matcha that we have been using. Over the past six months, our team has tasted over 75 different matcha samples across all sorts of different suppliers. This is not super unusual, as we do use many different types of matcha across all our brands. Some grades are better in products that have additional ingredients, and some are intended to be used in their purest form.

Here are some things that I bet you didn’t know. Matcha is known for its amazing benefits, but there’s a hidden concern that many people aren’t talking about: heavy metal contamination. Since matcha is made from whole ground tea leaves, anything in the soil—including heavy metals—ends up in your cup.

Heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic can be found in soil due to pollution, pesticides, and industrial waste. Since tea plants absorb nutrients (and contaminants) directly from the earth, where your matcha is grown makes a huge difference. That’s why we test our matcha for heavy metals to ensure it meets strict safety standards. We want to work with trusted farms and processors that use clean, sustainable soil practices and rigorous testing to keep contaminants in check. But over the years, this has been such a learning curve for us.

Some things that we always look at before we select a brand off the shelf are:

• Testing for heavy metals from a third-party lab
• Grown in regions known for clean soil
• Use organic and pesticide-free farming methods
  (we are just starting to explore Regenerative Organic here)

Coconut milk is creamy, delicious, and packed with nutrients, but have you ever wondered about the people behind the harvest? Just like many other supply chains, coconut has a long history of exploitation. When we purchased Buzzd in October, we did a deep dive on the industry and were saddened by all the things we learned.

If you have been following Sarjesa, you’ll know that we believe in the power of business models and supply chain to truly transform the world. We believe we can make beautiful, healthy products that uplift suppliers and end consumers alike.

Many large-scale coconut farms rely on underpaid labor, and in some cases, animals are even exploited for harvesting. The demand for coconut-based products has skyrocketed, but without ethical oversight, it can come at quite the cost. Previously, we have worked with some amazing third-party suppliers to assist with our coconut sourcing. However, this year we will be bringing the relationship more directly to farmers.

So begins our search for coconut milk we can go nuts about. We’ve been tasting so many samples from so many suppliers and we have finally narrowed it down to a couple that we really like that prioritize fair wages, humane working conditions, and sustainability.

A little awareness goes a long way in helping create a more just and sustainable industry.

At BUZZD, we believe in fuelling more than just bodies—we fuel communities. That’s why we’re dedicated to delivering superfoods to local communities in need. February always feels like a tough month to get through. Here in Calgary, it’s super snowy and cold. This year feels like a bit of a trudge.

Something that has helped get us through is being intentional with our giving. A few months ago, our new owners were approached with some news from a previous retailer about not receiving product they had ordered previously. In addition to trying to make it right with the retailer, we also took three cases of product to our local community pantry.

Food insecurity is a real issue, and many people don’t have access to the nutrient-dense, high-quality ingredients they need to feel their best. By sharing superfoods, we’re helping nourish bodies, uplift spirits, and spread warmth where it’s needed most.

Kindness is contagious. Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or just sharing a warm cup of something good, small acts can make a huge impact. Let’s keep the good energy flowing! We are always looking for opportunities to support local and international organizations.

If you have ideas on how and where we can do good, please reach out!

For many of us, that first sip of a morning drink sets the tone for the day. But when it comes to fueling up, should you reach for a steamy cup of coffee or a vibrant bowl of matcha? Both have their perks, but choosing the right one depends on what you're looking for.

Energy Without the Jitters? Matcha Might Be Your Match

People have suggested that matcha provides a more balanced and sustained energy boost than coffee. Why? L-theanine—an amino acid found in matcha—helps promote relaxation and focus, creating a “calm alertness” effect. Instead of a sudden caffeine spike (and crash), matcha’s energy release is slow and steady.

Need a Quick Jolt? Coffee Delivers

Coffee is fast-acting and bold, giving you a quick caffeine kick that can wake you up almost instantly. Some love that rush, but others find it leads to jitters, energy crashes, and afternoon fatigue. If that sounds familiar, you might want to try switching to matcha.

Antioxidants & Wellness Benefits

Both matcha and coffee contain antioxidants, but matcha has been reported to have a much higher concentration—packed with catechins that people believe support cell health. Coffee, on the other hand, is loaded with polyphenols, which have been studied for their potential heart benefits.

Which One is Best for You?

It all comes down to your goals! If you love the ritual of a rich, bold brew, coffee might be your go-to. But if you want sustained energy, focus, and extra antioxidants, matcha is worth a try!