Toppo Premium Fragrant Matcha Review – Japanese Snack by Lotte
Introduction
This article reviews Toppo Premium Fragrant Matcha by Lotte, focusing on its flavor, texture, ingredients, and allergen information.
In recent years, matcha has become popular around the world, and many matcha-flavored snacks are now available. In Japan, the classic chocolate snack Toppo has brought back its long-awaited matcha flavor.
Packaging
Looking at the package, it clearly has a traditional Japanese aesthetic that makes you feel like you can fully enjoy matcha.
It states that Uji matcha from Kyoto is used, and just knowing that Toppo is combined with Uji matcha already makes me want to say, “Thank you, Lotte!”
However, this product does not stop there.
On the back of the package, there is a message explaining the concept of this Toppo.
It appears to say:
“We filled our specially crafted pretzel with chocolate made from carefully selected Uji matcha chosen by a top-ranked tea master, all the way to the end.
The harmony between pretzel and chocolate delivers a refreshing moment in your busy daily life.
Even as an adult, this is something that makes you think, ‘This is exactly what I like.’ Enjoy this high-quality taste.”
A top-ranked tea master (10th-dan level) is said to be a specialist who achieved the highest evaluation at the National Tea Appraisal Skills Competition.
There seem to be only a little over 20 such individuals in more than 60 years, making them extremely rare.
Just hearing that this chocolate uses matcha selected by such a professional already builds strong anticipation.
Appearance
I could not wait, so I opened the box.
The green chocolate has a vivid color that almost says, “This is matcha!”
One of the enjoyable aspects of matcha snacks is this kind of visual appeal.
When opening the inner pack and smelling it, the aroma feels slightly different from other matcha snacks.
There seems to be a slightly tangy sweetness, combined with a fresh tea leaf-like fragrance.
Taste & Texture
Before focusing on the taste, I decided to compare the pretzel itself, since this product uses a “special pretzel.”
Visually, the pretzel appears to have the same color and thickness as the original Toppo.
When comparing them, this is my personal impression:
- The original version seems slightly saltier and more roasted
- The matcha version’s pretzel seems to contain matcha and appears to reduce the roasted flavor to highlight the aroma of matcha
- The aftertaste seems to have less saltiness
- Because it contains hazelnut paste, the flavor feels somewhat softer overall
Even setting aside my subjective impressions, one thing is clear:
๐ The matcha aroma is present throughout, from the outer pretzel to the inner chocolate.
The matcha chocolate inside has a gentle sweetness that supports the matcha flavor rather than overpowering it.
Overall, the taste feels like a reliable and familiar Toppo-style finish, but with a refined matcha twist.
Quick Review
Product Information
Nutrition Facts
Per pack (36 g):
Energy: 192 kcal
Protein: 2.0 g
Fat: 10.3 g
Carbohydrates: 22.7 g
Salt Equivalent: 0.24 g
Ingredients
Wheat flour (manufactured in Japan)
Sugar
Vegetable oils and fats
Lactose
Starch
Shortening
Whole milk powder
Cocoa butter
Whey powder
Sweetened condensed milk
Matcha
Skim milk powder
Hazelnut paste
Cream powder
Bitter sugar powder
Malt extract
Salt
Soybean germ extract
Additives
Leavening agent
Emulsifier
Coloring (safflower yellow, gardenia)
Flavoring
Allergens
Wheat
Milk
Soy
Additional note:
Although not highlighted on the label, this product contains hazelnut paste.
Hazelnuts are not currently included in Japan’s mandatory or recommended allergen labeling categories, so they may not always be emphasized on the package.
People with nut allergies should be careful.
Product Classification
Name: Chocolate-filled pretzel snack
Storage Instructions
Store in a cool place below 28°C.
Chocolate may stick to the outside of the pretzel.
After opening, consume as soon as possible.
Purchase Location
It can be purchased at various mass retailers, convenience stores, and retail stores nationwide.
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