What is Matcha? The Japanese Tradition Taking Over The Modern Beverage Market

If there is one drink that has been taking the internet by a storm, it is matcha. With its delicate green colour and smooth, powder-like texture, matcha is a legacy of centuries old Japanese culture.

From health freaks to trend hoppers, people can't stop talking about this new drink. Every time you open Instagram, you are bound to see an influencer or even a friend posing with a matcha drink in their hand.

However, let us take a look behind all the buzz and see what matcha is all about.

Matcha 101: A Sip into Japanese Tradition

Originating from Japan around 800 years ago, matcha is nothing but a type of green tea which is finely powdered. It has a vibrant green colour and an earthy taste to it.

Matcha was initially used as a traditional drink during tea ceremonies performed by samurais and monks. The entire matcha leaf tea was grounded into a powder form to get a richer taste and colour, and this process continues till date.

Even though matcha has found its way into modern cafe culture, we must not forget that it is a very nutritious drink. It is full of antioxidants and helps you feel energised without making you jittery, the way coffee does.

Let's see what makes matcha so special and differentiates it from various green teas in the world.

How Matcha Is Different from Regular Green Tea

Both matcha and green tea come from the same plant called camellia sinensis. The thing that sets them both apart is their process of cultivation and preparation.

Matcha tea plants are kept away from direct sunlight a few weeks after harvesting which boost the amount of chlorophyll present in them. Not only that, this practice also enhances the presence of amino acids and gives it the rich green colour we see online.

Unlike green tea leaves which are discarded after brewing, leaves of matcha tea are ground and used directly by mixing it into milk or water. this way, we consume the whole leaf and get a more potent flavour.

Why Matcha Is Trending in Today’s Beverage Scene

Cafes all around the world have included matcha in their modern beverage menus. It would be fair to say that it has become a hot-selling staple, thanks to its aesthetically pleasing look, health benefits, and versatility.

Despite being the trendy drink that it is, matcha has also caught the eye of wellness focused people who wish to lean towards mindful consumption. As a natural energy booster, people are finding it easy to replace coffee or other heavily caffeinated drinks with matcha.

In some ways, consuming matcha also helps people connect with the unknown culture of Japan and helps them learn more about it. All these factors make this drink a perfect combination of traditional heritage and contemporary relevance.

Health Benefits That Make Matcha a Superdrink

One of the main reasons behind matcha’s fame is the health benefits that come with it. Consuming the whole life provides you with high levels of antioxidants, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is known for its cancer-fighting properties.

Here are a few more promising benefits of this superdrink -

1. Increases energy and concentration

Due to the presence of an amino acid called L-theanine, the caffeine present in matcha doesn't affect you the same way as coffee. The amino acid makes it more stable and helps you stay calm, focused and alert.

2. Speeds up metabolism and weight loss

There has been a link between fat burning and increased calorie burning with matcha. It is perfect to include in your daily weight loss diet.

3. Improves heart health

Regularly consuming matcha can help you lower your cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

4. Strengthens immunity

Matcha is rich in important nutrients, such as vitamin E and C which boost your immunity and keep you strong.

Modern Twists: From Lattes to Desserts and Beyond

Right now, the market is flooded with matcha based products. Matcha cakes, gelato, yogurt, cookies, lattes, smoothies - the list is endless. Someone is probably creating a new matcha based item as you read this!

This earthy green powder is mostly used in making delicious desserts. Matcha cheesecakes, mochi, and ice cream are all the rage these days.

The versatility of this powder is what makes it so loved. Chefs, cooks and baristas all around the world are able to experiment and create a wide variety of delicious treats using matcha.

Matcha’s Timeless Appeal in a Modern World

In this ever-changing world where people are always innovating yet still trying to find their roots in traditional values, matcha has found its sweet spot.

It is taking culinary trends for a spin, and everyone seems to be enjoying the ride!

Matcha is a blend of taste, health and legacy. Whether you want to have a quiet moment of indulgence or make your Instagram story pop, you know where to look without thinking twice.

The beverage market has always evolved and will continue to evolve, but from the looks of it, matcha might be here to stay.

The Psychology of “Impulse Buying” and How to Shop More Mindfully

Ever added something to your cart simply because it felt too good to resist? If your answer is yes, then you have been a victim of impulse buying. In today's day and age, it has become very easy to satisfy your needs in the blink of an eye. This has made impulse shopping easier than ever. Before we get into the psychology of it all, let's understand what impulse buying actually means. What is Impulse Buying Impulse buying refers to the instant, spontaneous purchases you make without having any actual intent to make them. Impulse shopping usually happens when brands tap you into your emotions - through flash sales, limited-time offers and whatnot. They push you to give into your impulses and buy more than you need. Why Impulse Buying Happens More Than We Think The whole point of impulse shopping is to get consumers to buy mindlessly, without having any real need for something. Brands are aware of this, and hence design their websites and products in a way that encourages impulsive buying. Lots of businesses employ and invest in psychological tactics to get consumers to buy more. Let's take a look at what they are. The Psychology Behind Impulse Shopping When we shop impulsively, we stop thinking logically. Our emotions play a huge role in impulse buying, emotions like excitement, stress, boredom and even sadness. Here are a few psychological factors that lead to impulse shopping - 1. Instant Satisfaction Impulse buying gives you a feeling of instant reward. This gives consumers a dopamine rush. 2. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) Offers that only last a limited time give people a sort of urgency, making them buy things instantly. 3. Peer Influence A lot of times, people feel heavily influenced by their social circle and their purchases. They end up giving into impulsive buying to fit in. 4. Coping mechanism Some people use impulsive shopping to cope with difficult emotions such as sadness, anger and stress. What Actually Leads to Impulse Buying Apart from all the psychological factors, businesses and brands also employ certain techniques to keep consumers around. 1. Online Algorithms Websites usually have a ‘trending’ or 'recommended’ section that attracts consumers. These sections have products based on consumer searches and preferences. 2. Retail Store Environments Physical stores make use of lighting, strategic product placement, design and even music to encourage impulse shopping. 3. Sales and Discounts Sales and discounts, such as flash sales and buy one get one offers, are often misleading and are used to attract consumers the most. The Hidden Costs of Impulse Shopping In the heat of the moment, making mindless purchases feels very rewarding. But this moment is followed by various mixed feelings. 1. Buyer’s remorse Impulse shopping can often lead to feeling regret after making your purchases. 2. Clutter and chaos Too much mindless shopping means more and more accumulation of useless products in your living space. 3. Disturbance in savings Sometimes, impulsive buying can take over you to a point that it starts messing with your savings and finances. Tips to Shop More Mindfully and Break the Habit Over Time If you are someone who has gone through the ordeal of impulse shopping, you know how hard it is to stop. Here are some tips to hold yourself back from going down an impulse buying rabbit hole. 1. Shopping Lists Make shopping lists at the beginning of your shopping spree to make sure you're only buying exactly what you need. 2. 24 Hour Rule Right when you are about to impulsively buy something, pause and wait for 24 hours. This will give you time to think your purchase through. 3. Make a Budget Create a financial budget for yourself every month or week to control impulse buying. 4. Use Cash Carrying and using cash helps you see how much money is actually being spent. 5. Track your spending Keep a record of how much money you spend and where you spend it, especially the money spent on non-essential goods. 6. Identify triggers Learn about the different types of physical and emotional triggers that lead you to impulsively shop for things. Shop intentionally, not emotionally Impulse shopping doesn't mean lacking discipline. It means being driven by emotions and feelings. All this is further promoted by clever marketing tactics. Awareness is the first step to change. Once you know what triggers your impulse buying, you can take control of it easily. So the next time you're shopping, pause and reflect before buying something. You don't have to buy less, you just have to buy better and feel good with every purchase. FAQs 1. What is the difference between impulse and regular shopping? Regular shopping mostly includes buying stuff that you actually need as opposed to impulse shopping where you buy things fueled by emotions. 2. How can I stop impulse buying online? Do not save your credit or debit card details online, block shopping websites that you visit frequently and follow the 24 hour rule. 3. Do I need psychological help if I am an impulse buyer? No. Impulse shopping is a part of human nature. We all fall victim to this trap. It can be easily controlled by being a little mindful. 4. Can I become financially weak because of impulse buying? Although a little mindless shopping doesn't hurt anyone, excessive mindless shopping might hurt your bank account.

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Loved on Shark Tank, Now on Zop: Find 7 Best Shark Tank Products

Innovation combined with entrepreneurial spirit gives birth to some of the best products. This is most evident with all the products we see coming out of Shark Tank! These products aren’t just high-quality. They’re full of creativity, purpose, and powerful stories. They've opened the door to fresh, home-grown ideas that truly stand out. If you are looking to explore and buy unique, home-grown products then look no further, because Zop brings you the best of the best from Shark Tank. Snacks, toys - you name it. Zop has got it all. Why Shark Tank Products Are Creating a Buzz Shark Tank India has given entrepreneurs around the country a chance to present their products to the country. Shark Tank items are not just mere products, they were carefully crafted, requiring months and even years of market research and planning. The best Shark Tank products carry a story with them, stories that are capable of resonating with the vast Indian consumer base. One feels assured of the fact that the products will be reliable and authentic if they have seen them on Shark Tank before. Shop Shark Tank Products on Zop.in At Zop, you will find all the best Shark Tank products curated just for you. Our collection of these Shark Tank items is carefully picked out to suit customer needs. When you shop Shark Tank products on Zop, you support Indian entrepreneurs both ways, as Zop is also a homegrown brand providing consumers with every product they can imagine. 7 Best Shark Tank Products to Grab Right Now on Zop Here is a list of some of the most popular Shark Tank products you can buy on Zop right now. 1. Sushi Kit For 2 by Chefling Sushi doesn't always have to be a fancy dining experience: Now with the Sushi Kit For 2 by Chefling, you can make your own sushi for yourself and for someone special. This kit comes with all the ingredients you read along with easy to follow instructions. Plan a date night now! 2. Potterland Slip Ons by Quirky Naari This one is for all the Harry Potter fanatics. These Potterland Slip On Shoes by Quirky Naari are the cutest fashion statement ever. You can now show your love for the series by having the wizardry at your feet. The design is so colourful and fun, you might end up attracting more than just Potterheads. 3. Montessori Galaxy Explorer Busy Board-V3 by ClapStore Toys introduce your kid to the concept of outer space with this Montessori Galaxy Explorer Busy Board by ClapStore Toys. It is a traditional busy board that does not have any technological elements. It's not only fun, but also educational and will help your kid learn about things outside of their world view. adding to that, toys made by ClapStore are made with the cleanest of materials. 4. Belgian Chocolate Peanut Butter by FitFeast Bringing to you, one of the most indulgent items on Shark Tank is this Belgian Chocolate Peanut Butter by FitFeast. Before you start to think that this product is unhealthy, you should know that it has 6.5 g of protein per serving, is rich in antioxidants and also supports your heart health. Enjoy a tasty treat without compromising on nutrition! 5. Mood Uplifting Chocolate For Couple by Nooky India The Mood Uplifting Chocolate by Nooky is a prime example of unique innovations brought to us by Shark Tank. This is an aphrodisiac chocolate designed to enhance connection and passion between you and your partner. Share one with your partner and your moments together will be full of excitement. 6. Happy Berries Crunchy Granola | Oat-rich by Fit & Flex Make your morning right and bright with this Happy Berries Crunchy Granola by Fit & Flex. Granola is known to be one of the healthiest, most versatile breakfast options. It boosts digestion, improves your immune system, helps you clean out your intestines - the list goes on and on. 7. A2 Badri Cow Ghee by Namakwali Make way for Shark Tank's most authentic product, the A2 Badri Cow Ghee by Namakwali. We have all grown up eating food made in pure ghee. With this product, you can revive the memories of all the food you had in your childhood. Discover, Support & Shop Homegrown Brands Buying Shark Tank products on Zop doesn't only mean supporting businesses, it also stands for supporting dreams and aspirations. Every time you buy a product, you ignite hope in the hearts of many young and budding entrepreneurs and increase their belief in themselves. FAQs 1. Are Shark Tank products really expensive? The price depends from product to product. however, products in this list are reasonably priced. 2. Are all these Shark Tank products available online? You can buy the best shark Tank products on Zop, an online marketplace. 3. Are all Shark Tank items authentic? Yes. All Shark Tank India items are authentic and born from homegrown materials and ideas. 4. Can I trust the product shown on Shark Tank? Products on Shark Tank are tried and tested, not only by the entrepreneurs, but also by the investors present.

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DIY Food Kit – The Future of Home Cooking

In this fast-moving world, cooking at home has taken a backseat. Nobody is able to find the time to go through the hassle of making meals in their kitchen. But what if cooking at home became the opposite of a hassle - easy, efficient yet still delicious? All of that is now possible with a DIY Food Kit - the next big thing in modern kitchens. A DIY Food Kit is easy to follow. A box of fresh ingredients that come with step by step instructions - cooking has never been easier! The Rise of DIY Food Kits DIY Food Kits became especially popular when the Covid-19 pandemic hit us. People were trying to make cooking fun without having to go to grocery stores. This is when these kits stepped in. They made cooking not only convenient, but also fun. Nobody had to commit to buying all the ingredients for an elaborate meal when a DIY Food Kit could easily do the trick. What is a DIY Food Kit? A DIY Food Kit is exactly what it sounds like - a food kit with all the ingredients of a meal that can be made at home - easily and efficiently. Let's take a look at what this kit consists of! Fresh, vacuum-sealed ingredients Pre-measured condiments A step-by-step guide or a QR code for video instructions How to cook using a DIY Food Kit? With some simple steps, you can make a delicious dish using these kits. Step - 1: Unbox and prepare Lay out all your ingredients, spiced as well as condiments. Some ingredients may require rinsing. Step - 2: Follow the instructions Most food kits come with steps or instructions either on the back of the box or in a video accessed by a QR Code. Step - 3: Cook your meal and serve It shouldn't take you more than 30 minutes to cook up your delicious meal, ready to serve in no time! Why DIY Food Kits Are a Game-Changer From taste to convenience, here are all the reasons why DIY Food Kits have changed the cooking and kitchen market for the better. 1. Time Saving No need to go get groceries or go through an elaborate recipe. 2. Prevent Wastage of Food DIY Food Kits only have the required quantity of food, making sure nothing goes wasted. 3. Beginner Friendly These kits are easy to follow, making it easy for people who are just starting to get into cooking. 4. Multiple flavours, Zero Commitment These food kits allow you to various flavours and cuisines without having to commit to a plethora of ingredients and recipes. 5. Easy on the Pocket These kits will save you not only time but also money, especially if you're someone who eats out regularly. Top Brands of DIY Food Kits Ready to buy some of these kits for yourself? Here is a list of some of the top brands for these kits in the market. 1. Chefling Chefling is a premium kitchen brand offering you high quality products. They make cooking fun as well as efficient, something that isn't possible in regular cooking. Chefling’s DIY food kits have got it all - sushi, lasagne, enchiladas and more. On top of that, they have a selection of Jain Kits for people who follow a strictly vegetarian diet. Check out Chefling today on Zop and get your DIY Food kits at the best prices! 2. FreshMenu FreshMenu has been providing thousands of people with everyday meals for years, and they are doing god’s work! They are well known for their delicious, pre-made meal boxes which are not only nutritious but also don't hurt your pocket. 3. Meatigo by Prasuma Meatigo has got a variety of DIY Food Kits that mostly focus on premium, non-vegetarian meal options. From chicken katsu curry to pork momos, Meatigo will give you high quality ingredients and impeccable taste. 4. Parafit India Parafit India is mixing food and fitness. Their kits are crafted with the help of certified nutritionists and chefs. If you're looking for a quick, balanced meal that will hit all your nutritional goals, then Parafit is the right ‘fit’ for you! 5. Kook by Pluckk Kook is known for their healthy and vegetarian plant-based recipes. They offer fresh and clean ingredients for all their meals. Some of their famous DIY Food Kits are Thai green curry and pasta arrabiata. Less mess, More magic - One kit at a time DIY Food Kits truly feel like they are here to stay. It is nothing but a smarter, more efficient way to cook at home. All the prep is done for you, from pre-measured ingredients to easy-to-follow recipe instructions. Then what are you waiting for? Go get your hands on these kits now! FAQs 1. Are DIY Food Kits suitable for vegetarians? Yes! Many brands provide vegetarians with a variety of meal options. Chefling even has a Jain Kits section. 2. How long does a kit last? A DIY Food Kit has a shelf life of around 2 to 5 days. This is because most ingredients used are fresh. 3. Do I need to know how to cook if I want to use a DIY Food Kit? Not at all! These kits are very easy to follow and do not require any cooking skills. All you need to do is follow some basic instructions. 4. Are the ingredients safe and clean? Yes! Most brands go through a procedure of securing fresh and clean ingredients that are safe for consumption. 5. Where can I buy DIY Food Kits? You can buy these kits on most e-commerce platforms like Zop. You can also buy them from brand-specific websites.

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The Psychology of “Impulse Buying” and How to Shop More Mindfully

Loved on Shark Tank, Now on Zop: Find 7 Best Shark Tank Products

DIY Food Kit – The Future of Home Cooking

Top 11 Epic Gifts for Football Lovers (Perfect for Any Occasion!)

For millions of people around the world, football isn't just a sport-it's an emotion. It's a sport that connects people from every corner of the world. Knowing the intense love they have for the game, getting gifts for football fans becomes a tough task. Simply buying football merchandise does not do the job anymore. The gift should acknowledge their love, nostalgia and passion for the sport. In this guide, we have covered some of the best gifts you can get for football fans, from iconic moments captured in clothes to posters of their favourite players. The Perfect Picks for Every Football Fan One thing we can all agree on is the fact that football fans have a personal connection with the game. Some of them are obsessed with certain players and clubs while others just thoroughly enjoy the sport. This is why it's so hard to pick out gifts for football fans. The gift needs to have functionality as well as emotional value, something that shows that you recognise their love for football. If you are planning to give something to a football lover in your life, then keep reading to know more! What Makes a Great Gift for Football Lovers you have to dig a little deeper when it comes to getting gifts for football fans. Take care of these few things, and you should be good to go! 1. Emotional and historical value An emotionally charged gift is always the right way to go. Whatever you get them, it should represent their favourite team, their favourite club or their favourite moment in the history of the sport. 2. High quality and functionality You need to make sure that your gift stands out. It should be something that they can always reach out for and rely on. 3. Something that starts conversations If there is one thing that football fans love more than the sport, it is interacting with fellow football lovers. Get them something that will help them talk to people with the same interest. Top 11 Gifts for Football Lovers Here is a list of some of the best gifts you can get for any football fan in your life. 1. Ronaldo Hoodie We all have a Ronaldo fan in our life who worships him like nobody's business. Get them this Ronaldo Hoodie to celebrate their love for the five time Ballon d'Or winner. 2. Messi Oversize T-Shirt Messi fans around the world are just as dedicated as Ronaldo fans. This Messi oversized T-shirt is comfy, high-quality and will make them feel closer to their favourite player and sport on match days. 3. Hand Of God T-Shirt The OG football fans know what this one is about. Stitch this golden memory of Diego Maradona in fabric and immortalise his iconic goal of the 1986 FIFA World Cup for a diehard football fan in your life by getting them this Hand Of God t-shirt. 4. The GOATs (Messi and Ronaldo) - Poster Seeing Messi and Ronaldo on the same poster might not sit right with a lot of football lovers, but they will all agree that both these players have mastered the game like nobody else. This poster is perfect for someone who appreciates the sport more than the players. 5. The D10S Argentina T-Shirt D10S stands for ‘Dios’, which means ‘God’ in Spanish, while simultaneously being a representation of Maradona’s T-Shirt number - 10. This T-shirt is perfect for football fans who have supported Argentina for years. 6. Portugal Vintage T-Shirt Number 7 This Portugal vintage T-shirt beautifully captures Ronaldo's legacy with the number seven on its back. The distressed design adds to the look, making it a perfect going out T-shirt when it is time for public match screenings. 7. The World Champion Argentina: FIFA 2022 Poster Even people who are not football fans know about the dramatic win by Argentina in the FIFA 2022 world championship. Get this poster for someone who has special memories attached to this historic moment. 8. Germany Pure Leather Jacket German football teams are known for their dominance and dedication. This Germany jacket, made of pure leather, is all things unique, stylish, and classy. 9. Japan Collared Sweatshirt Not many of us have heard of Japan when it comes to football. It would be safe to call them the underdog of this sport. This collared sweatshirt is a way to pay homage to the rising football culture in Japan. 10. And Solksjaer Has Won It T-Shirt Ask any Manchester United fan, and they will assure you that they still get goosebumps from Martin Tyler’s commentary in the 1999 Champions League final. This T-shirt will revive this memory for them. 11. Corner Taken Quickly - Poster This poster represents one of the most iconic goals in football history, which took place in the 2019 Champions League semi-final between Barcelona and Liverpool. A must have to remember Trent Alexander and Origi’s finish. Gifts That Go Beyond the Usual Merch What sets these gifts apart from your common merchandise is how they have captured iconic moments in football history, moments where times stopped and fans around the world were united with joy and love. With Zop, you can find all the meaningful football accessories that would touch a football fan's heart. Zop’s carefully curated list of football gifts is all you need and more. Make your gift count on and off the field In a world full of old, boring football merchandise, make sure that your gift for your fellow football lovers stands out. It could be any occasion - birthday, anniversary, a surprise for something special or just a token of your love - it is important to make a gift count. Football lovers love identifying with their sport. So the next time you need to get them a gift, you know where to look. FAQ 1. Can someone who plays football also use these gifts? Yes! For football players, you can get football T-shirts and sweatshirts. 2. Are these gifts suitable for women as well? Absolutely! These gifts are for all football fans, regardless of whether they are a man or a woman. 3. What can I get for a football fan apart from jerseys? Instead of the regular jerseys, you can get posters and even jackets as gifts for football fans.

What is Matcha? The Japanese Tradition Taking Over The Modern Beverage Market

Matcha 101: A Sip into Japanese Tradition

How Matcha Is Different from Regular Green Tea

Why Matcha Is Trending in Today’s Beverage Scene