If you’ve ever wondered who crafts Costco’s Kirkland Signature Green Tea, the answer lies in a quiet Japanese powerhouse. This box of 100 tea bags, priced at $13.99, isn’t just a warehouse staple—it’s a product of Ito En, Japan’s largest green tea brand. With operations spanning 45 countries, Ito En’s expertise isn’t just about scale; it’s about tradition. The company’s signature method? Steaming, not baking or pan-frying, which preserves the tea’s delicate vegetal notes. This technique, passed down through generations, gives Costco’s green tea its light, fresh profile—a stark contrast to the smoky undertones of Chinese teas.
The blend itself is a marriage of matcha and sencha, two pillars of Japanese tea culture. Matcha, the powdered form, adds a vibrant umami depth, while sencha contributes a crisp, grassy brightness. Together, they create a light green infusion that’s both soothing and satisfying. Ito En’s process is meticulous: leaves are cooled, pressed, rolled, and dried to lock in flavor and freshness. This explains why tea bags, despite their convenience, have a shorter shelf life than loose-leaf varieties. The trade-off? A ready-to-drink experience that’s perfect for busy mornings.
Costco’s partnership with Ito En isn’t new—it’s been a decade-long collaboration, fueled by mutual goals. The warehouse giant’s bulk buying power aligns with Ito En’s global reach, making the Kirkland line a win for both. Yet the tea’s appeal goes beyond logistics. With a 4.7/5 rating and over 1,800 reviews, customers praise its balanced flavor and affordability. Even critics note the plastic packaging, but the brewed result—smooth, aromatic, and refreshing—speaks louder than any complaint.
The takeaway? Costco’s green tea isn’t a mystery once you know it’s made by Ito En. The brand’s traditional methods and strategic partnerships deliver a product that’s both authentic and accessible. For tea lovers, it’s a reminder that quality can come in a box. But here’s the real question: What’s your go-to tea ritual? Share your favorite brews below.
Questions & Answers
Is Costco’s green tea organic?
Costco’s green tea is not certified organic. It is a conventional tea sourced from China. It is processed and packaged by Costco for sale in their stores.
Where is Costco’s green tea produced?
Costco’s green tea is produced in China. It is then imported and packaged by Costco for distribution in their stores across the United States.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
