INNOVATIVE LYCHEE SMOOTHIE WITH WAFFLE AND WHIPPED CREAM AMONG GRADE 12 HOME ECONOMICS STUDENTS AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

The fresh lychee (Litchi chinensis) smoothie is a unique and refreshing beverage that features a sweet, aromatic, and slightly tangy flavor. The addition of waffle and whipped cream introduces a creative fusion of textures and flavors, making the drink visually appealing and enjoyable to the palate. This study aims to assess the level of acceptance of this innovative lychee smoothie among Grade 12 Home Economics students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. This study utilized a descriptive research design to evaluate the level of acceptance of the lychee smoothie with waffle and whipped cream. Fifty Grade 12 Home Economics students from Bestlink College of the Philippines participated as respondents, selected through random sampling to ensure equal representation. Data were gathered using a structured survey questionnaire with a checklist format. The results were analyzed using weighted mean and frequency distribution to interpret the respondents’ feedback effectively. The research findings reveal that the lychee smoothie with waffle and whipped cream was generally well-accepted by the respondents in terms of taste, texture, aroma, and overall appeal. The sweetness and flavor balance received the highest satisfaction, with a weighted mean of 3.34 (Very Satisfied). The texture scored a weighted mean of 3.16 (Satisfied), while the aroma and flavor followed with weighted means of 3.18 (Satisfied) and 3.22 (Satisfied), respectively.  Recommendations based on the feedback include the following ingredient adjustments to further improve the product: increase milk content, suggested by 34% of respondents, add more condensed milk, suggested by 43% of respondents; and enhance lychee quantity, suggested by 32% of respondents. The results revealed that Grade 12 Home Economics students positively accepted the lychee smoothie with waffle and whipped cream. The distinctive flavor of lychee played a key role in its overall appeal. The harmonious blend of the smoothie’s creamy texture, the waffle’s fluffiness, and the lightness of the whipped cream offered a satisfying sensory experience. However, some respondents recommended enhancing the creaminess and sweetness to make the product more indulgent. In conclusion, the study supports the hypothesis that creative beverage combinations that balance flavor, texture, and aroma can boost consumer satisfaction. Future research may examine ingredient proportion adjustments or explore alternative sweeteners to accommodate varying taste preferences.