Development and Assessment of Social Acceptability, Market Potential, and Profitability of Various Banana Pseudo-Stem Beverages

Abstract

The study aimed to utilize banana pseudo-stem (BPS) to develop juice, shakes, and tea, and assess their acceptability and market potential. Natural ingredients were used. The developed products contain extract from the inner sheath and tender core of BPS. Untrained panelists showed different preferences when grouped according to age and marital status. Younger, single people preferred shakes and juice; older, married people preferred tea. There was a general dearth of knowledge about the physiological and nutritional advantages of BPS, which emphasizes the necessity of consumer education. Different levels of palatability were found in the beverages based on sensory ratings. The juice was evaluated as moderately acceptable with no discernible bitterness, whereas shakes were rated extremely good because of their balanced sweetness and absence of sourness or bitterness. The tea faced challenges due to its slight bitterness and less favorable aftertaste. The shakes have the most favorable potential, highlighting how flavor influences consumer preferences. The low frequency of consumption was found, with beverages being perceived as supplemental rather than everyday needs. On average, the projected weekly consumption is 188 ml of juice, 258 ml of shakes, and 74 ml of tea. Profitability evaluations highlighted the economic feasibility of all beverages, with T1 formulations showing cost-effectiveness across all products. While not for tea, sociodemographic characteristics like age, household size, and income source may substantially impact juice and shake consumption trends. The results highlight the urgency of innovative marketing, better flavor compositions, and consumer education promotional programs to increase the appeal and consumption of BPS beverages.