창의적 차 제품 개발 연구 - 설문조사에서 제품화까지

A Study on the Development of Creative Tea Products : From Survey Research to Commercialization

In the 21st century, the tea industry has evolved beyond a traditional beverage sector into a fusion industry encompassing health functionality, lifestyle, and cultural value. Particularly among the MZ generation, tea consumption represents personal taste, emotion, and well-being. Within this trend, blended tea has emerged as a creative and expandable product category that reflects diverse consumer needs. However, in Korea, tea production remains focused mainly on single-variety green or black tea, and systematic product development research is still limited. This study aims to fill this academic and industrial gap by documenting and analyzing the entire process of creative tea product development through practice-based learning. Using a Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach, graduate students majoring in tea culture and science participated in surveys, blending experiments, sensory evaluations, and final product trials. Consumer preferences for flavor, aroma, and health benefits were reflected in prototype designs, followed by evaluations through tasting sessions and packaging studies. SWOT-based discussions guided the commercialization phase. The research provides an academic framework for integrating consumer research and creative product development while offering practical insights for education and the tea industry. Ultimately, this study contributes to cultivating the next generation of tea scientists equipped with experiential product development competencies.