Journal of Tea Science Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 112-122 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/jtsr 112 Review and Progress Open Access Next-Generation Tea Beverages: Innovations in Formulation and Processing Xiaohui Liu1,3, Yichen Zhao2, Degang Zhao1,2 1 Plant Conservation & Breeding Technology Center, Guizhou Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biotechnology/Guizhou Institute of Biotechnology, Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guiyang, 550006, Guizhou, China 2 Key Laboratory of Plant Resources Conservation and Germplasm Innovation in Mountainous Region (Ministry of Education), College of Tea Sciences, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China 3 College of Food and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Guizhou Institute of Technology, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China Corresponding author: dgzhao@gzu.edu.cn Journal of Tea Science Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.2 doi: 10.5376/jtsr.2024.14.0011 Received: 07 Feb., 2024 Accepted: 12 Mar., 2024 Published: 18 Apr., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Liu et al., This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Liu X.H., Zhao Y.C., and Zhao D.G., 2024, Next-generation tea beverages: innovations in formulation and processing, Journal of Tea Science Research, 14(2): 112-122 (doi: 10.5376/jtsr.2024.14.0011) Abstract This study explores the significant innovations and trends shaping the future of the tea beverage industry, focusing on novel ingredients, advanced processing technologies, and emerging consumer demands. The importance of innovation in tea beverages is evident in the shift of consumer preferences towards healthier and more sustainable choices. New ingredients such as functional additives and innovative extraction methods and processing technologies are fundamentally changing tea drink formulations, not only enhancing their health benefits but also improving sensory quality. Technological progress is the key to this transformation, with modern extraction, brewing, and fermentation technologies, as well as advancements in preservation and packaging, playing a crucial role. This study further discusses the integration of automation and digital technologies in tea production, showcasing successful innovations through case studies and lessons learned from market failures. It offers strategic recommendations and forecasts future directions for tea beverage innovation to meet evolving consumer expectations. This study provides a roadmap for future research and development in the tea beverage industry. Keywords Tea beverages; Functional formulations; Advanced processing technologies; Consumers; Innovation 1 Introduction The tea beverage industry has witnessed significant transformations over the past few decades, driven by the increasing consumer demand for health-oriented and functional beverages. Innovations in tea formulations and processing techniques have played a crucial role in meeting these demands. The introduction of next-generation tea beverages, which incorporate a variety of bioactive compounds, has not only enhanced the health benefits of tea but also diversified its flavor profiles and applications. These advancements are essential in maintaining the relevance and competitiveness of tea in the global beverage market (Nurmilah and Utama, 2022). Several key trends are driving innovation in tea formulations. There is a growing consumer preference for natural and health-promoting ingredients. This has led to the incorporation of various herbs, leaves, berries, seeds, and roots into tea formulations, resulting in beverages rich in bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids (Nurmilah and Utama, 2022). Microbial fermentation technology enriches tea beverages with functional health properties and unique flavors, making them highly appealing to consumers (Morales-de et al., 2023). Moreover, the rise of the "new-tea" industry, characterized by novel marketing strategies and the use of e-commerce platforms, has further fueled innovation. The adoption of tools like SWOT, PEST and AISAS analyses has enabled companies to better understand market dynamics and consumer preferences, thereby facilitating the development of innovative tea products (Lu, 2022; 2024). This study aims to explore the significance of bioactive compounds in enhancing the health benefits of tea and analyze the impact of consumer trends and market dynamics on tea innovation. The study discusses tea processing techniques that aid in the development of new tea products and identifies future directions and potential challenges for the tea beverage industry. By integrating recent research findings, this study hopes to provide
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