Food · Teas
Genmaicha (Brown Rice Tea)
玄米茶 (Genmaicha)
Also known as: Brown Rice Tea
At a glance
| Category | Food |
|---|---|
| INCI name | Not applicable (food use primarily) |
| Japanese labeling name | Not applicable (food use primarily) |
| Common Japanese notations | 玄米茶, ゲンマイチャ |
| Origin | Plant-derived (green tea blended with roasted brown rice) |
| Typical functions | Food/beverage use |
| Regulatory status in Japan | Food regulated under the Food Sanitation Act. |
Genmaicha is Japanese green tea blended with roasted, sometimes popped, brown rice. The rice adds a toasty, nutty note that balances the grassy-astringent character of the tea. It is a widely consumed everyday tea in Japan.
Classification
Tags below link to other ingredients sharing the same attribute, so you can pivot from one ingredient to its peers.
Product applications
Functions
Regulatory tags
Origin
Used in (typical product categories)
Finished-product categories that commonly include this ingredient in Japanese-market formulations.
- Everyday tea beverages (loose leaf, tea bags, bottled RTD)
- Tea-flavored confectionery and ice cream
- Functional and decaffeinated tea blends
- Cosmetic toners and antioxidant skincare lines
- Tea-based culinary applications (broths, sauces)
What it is
Genmaicha is produced by blending sencha or bancha with roasted brown rice grains. The ratio varies by producer but typically runs about 1:1 by weight. Some premium versions include matcha powder dusted over the blend.
Typical uses in Japanese products
Genmaicha is served hot or cold as an everyday tea. It has a mild, friendly flavor profile that makes it a common choice for meals.
Regulatory classification in Japan
Food regulation under Food Sanitation Act.
Regulatory classification in other markets
| EU | Food tea permitted. |
|---|---|
| USA | Imported as specialty tea. |
| China | Imported. |
| Korea | Similar roasted-grain tea blends exist. |
Example products
Example finished products will be added after verification.
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Related ingredients
References
- MAFF JAS standards — tea
Last updated: 2026-04-22. Ingredient entries are reviewed at least annually against current regulatory listings.