ASSESSMENT ON THE ACCEPTABILITY LEVEL OF CUCUMBER CHIPS AMONG HUMSS STRAND

Abstract

Cucumbers, a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, are known for their high water content and low calorie count, making them a refreshing and healthy vegetable. However, many teenagers struggle with poor eating habits, often opting for unhealthy snacks. To combat this, cucumber chips offer a nutritious alternative. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, cucumbers can help improve overall health and may lower the risk of chronic illnesses. These chips are not only a low-calorie, low-fat option, but they also provide essential nutrients, making them an excellent snack for those seeking healthier food choices. This study utilized a descriptive and quantitative research design to gather data through survey questionnaires. The participants were selected from the Humanities and Social Sciences strand at Bestlink College of the Philippines, using a quota sampling method. A total of 50 respondents (30 males and 20 females) participated in the survey. The researchers used a survey questionnaire to collect the data and employed a checklist method to assess the level of agreement among the respondents regarding the different aspects of the study. The results indicate that the flavor and appearance of the cucumber chips achieved a composite mean of 3.07, signaling that the respondents were satisfied with these features. Similarly, the texture of the product garnered a composite mean of 3.08, reflecting a positive response from the participants. The presentation of the cucumber chips received the highest rating, with a composite mean of 3.31, demonstrating that the respondents found the product's presentation to be the most appealing. This suggests that the respondents recognized and appreciated the researchers' creativity in developing cucumber chips as a healthy alternative. Overall, the study was successful in meeting the satisfaction levels of the respondents, with cucumber chips being viewed as both a tasty and healthy option. Nevertheless, the findings also highlight areas where further improvements could be made to enhance the product even more. This study combines nutritional analysis, sensory evaluation, and consumer perception to assess the acceptability of cucumber chips as a healthier snack alternative. The findings highlight that cucumber chips are a valuable source of essential nutrients, particularly vitamins C and K, which offer significant health benefits. Additionally, the sensory evaluation reveals positive consumer responses regarding the taste, texture, and overall appeal of the chips. These results suggest that cucumber chips present an attractive, nutritious, and enjoyable snack option for health-conscious individuals seeking an alternative to traditional, less nutritious snacks.