Several outlets report that hojicha— a roasted Japanese green tea— is drawing interest from wellness-focused consumers, positioning it as an alternative to matcha. The coverage describes hojicha as a “toasty” tea related to matcha, with a different flavor profile attributed to the roasting process. Articles frame the trend as part of a broader shift in consumer tea preferences, noting that matcha has been popular with health-conscious buyers but that some shoppers are now looking to hojicha. The pieces explain that hojicha is made from green tea leaves that are roasted, which is presented as the reason for its distinct taste compared with unroasted matcha. Overall, the reports focus on the growing popularity of hojicha and what it offers to drinkers who want a different-style green tea while staying within the wellness beverage category. The sources do not present new clinical evidence specific to health outcomes, instead emphasizing consumer demand and the tea’s place in current trends.