Storage life estimation of ready-to-drink wedang uwuh with accelerated shelf-life testing method

Abstract Ready-to-drink (RTD) wedang uwuh is herbal beverage product innovations that are practical and healthy but perishable because it is vulnerable to microorganisms. This research aim to determining the shelf-life of RTD wedang uwuh. Wedang Uwuh that has been brewed and packaged in 200mL glass bottles was used in this study. Product analysis was conducted on color, antioxidant activity, and total microbes quality parameters of RTD wedang uwuh. A complete randomized design was used as experimental design, with temperatures treatment of 5 ± 2°C, 25 ± 2°C, 45 ± 2°C for 28 days of storage and observations every 7 days. This study plays a crucial role in sustainable agriculture because wedang uwuh is a traditional Indonesian herbal drink. Research on its storage life helps in determining optimal preservation techniques and ensuring the beverage retains its nutritional. By extending the shelf life of wedang uwuh, producers can minimize spoilage, reducing the overall environmental impact and conserving resources. The estimated shelf-life of RTD wedang uwuh is calculated using the Accelerated Shelf-Life Testing measurement method. The shelf-life of RTD wedang uwuh based on the color–lightness ( L *) parameter 30.143 days at 5°C; 29.892 days at 25°C; and 29.758 days at 45°C.