The maths
What actually drives cost per cup.
Indicative only — confirm per lot. The point is the relationship between the levers, not the exact cents.
Dosage
A latte often uses 2–4 g of matcha. At an indicative FOB near US$20–30/kg for latte grade, that is roughly US$0.04–0.12 of matcha per serve before milk and labour. The dosage band alone can double the tea cost.
Grade vs application
A premium whisking grade costs more per kg, but most of its value is lost behind milk. For a latte, a selected latte grade usually protects margin better than paying for ceremonial specs the customer cannot taste.
Milk format
Oat, dairy and iced versions change yield and colour stability. A grade selected for colour stability behind your actual milk reduces waste and remakes.
Menu price
Most cafés price a matcha latte well above the combined tea + milk + labour cost. The goal is a repeatable serve where the tea cost stays a small, predictable share of the price.