Mo’mugi explores the untapped market potential of barley tea in Canada

Two Canadian sisters are bringing a popular Japanese beverage to the Canadian market. Mo’mugi is the first and only barley tea company in Canada.

Known for its nutty flavour, barley tea, also known as “mugicha,” is a popular caffeine-free alternative to conventional teas and coffees in Japan.

Janice Ishizaka and Cilla Watkins created the brand of organic mugicha made with 100 per cent British Columbia-grown barley. The business idea was sparked when Ishizaka was living in Japan and noticed everyone drinking the tea. Her sister Chilla was living in Salmon Arm, B.C., which is home to some of the country’s best barley.

Mo’mugi  tea is available in several retailers in B.C., Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario, online sales on their website and through Amazon Canada.

The duo hopes to partner with a larger beverage manufacturer to expand their distribution, launch new flavours, and make mo’mugi the go-to brand in the Canadian market for barley tea.