Elaboración de una bebida energética de té verde (Camellia sinensis) aromatizada con solución acuosa de sunfo (Clinopodium nubigenum)

Abstract

The main objective of this research was to develop a green tea-based energy drink flavored with an aqueous solution of sunfo, aiming to create a healthier beverage for consumers. Three treatments with varying levels of aqueous solution (5%, 10%, and 15%), were employed, along with a control treatment, each replicated four times. The statistical analysis followed a completely randomized design subject to analysis of variance (ANOVA), with mean separation using the Tukey test (P<0.05). The samples underwent physicochemical analysis (pH, acidity, ash content, protein, caffeine, and soluble solids), microbiological analysis (moulds, yeasts, and total coliforms), and a sensory acceptability analysis using a 5-point hedonic scale. The findings reported highly significant differences (P<0.01) in all variables due to the inclusion of sunfo aqueous solution. Other relevant findings determined that the energy drink with a 5% aqueous solution exhibited the best physicochemical characteristics: 277.26 mg/L caffeine, 0.11% protein, 0.26% acidity, pH 3.65, 6.68 ºBrix, and 0.74% ash content. Microbiological analysis showed the absence of moulds, yeasts, and total coliforms in all treatments. Sensory analysis revealed that the 5% and 10% sunfo aqueous solution energy drinks displayed the most favourable organoleptic characteristics. Additionally, the cost-benefit analysis demonstrated higher profitability for the energy drink with a 5% aqueous solution, yielding a profit of 0.28 cents for every dollar invested, with a production cost of $3.55. Based on these results, the product met the specifications of the Technical Standard INEN 2411 Regulations for energy drinks and INEN 1101 Regulations for carbonated beverages.