Food Technology Lecturers Empower Pokdarwis Dewi Manis: Innovation of Functional Goba Tea and Digital Marketing in Bongan Village, Tabanan

• Posted by: Admin
• Minggu, 10 Agustus 2025
• Has been read 21 time(s)

Tabanan, August 10, 2025 – The Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis) Dewi Manis of Bongan Village, Tabanan, has received fresh momentum in developing the region’s signature products through an empowerment program focusing on the innovation of functional beverages made from gonda (Sida rhombifolia) and the digitalization of marketing.

The program was led by I Desak Putu Kartika Pratiwi, S.TP., M.P., a lecturer from the Food Technology Study Program at Udayana University. This activity also includes several lecturers from the Food Technology Study Program, namely Anak Agung Istri Sri Wiadnyani, S.TP., M.Sc; Dr. Ir. Komang Ayu Nocianitri, M.Agr.Sc; Ir. I Gede Arie Mahendra Putra, S.TP., M.TP., IPM; and Ir. Putu Julyantika Nica Dewi, S.TP., M.TP. Through this collaboration, Pokdarwis members were equipped with both technical skills and modern marketing strategies to strengthen their competitiveness in an increasingly challenging market.

The empowerment program consisted of four main activities:

1. Improving Goba Tea Processing – Participants were trained to optimize the use of a drying machine (oven dehydrator) with precise temperature and time control, ensuring consistent quality for both powdered/tea bag products and ready-to-drink beverages.

2. Flavor Innovation – Development of goba tea variants with the addition of natural herbal ingredients such as cinnamon, vanilla, and lemon, enhancing both taste and functional benefits.

3. Packaging and Label Development – Enhancing product appeal through modern, informative packaging designs that reflect local identity.

4. Digital Marketing – Introducing digital-based marketing strategies, including the use of social media and e-commerce platforms to expand market reach.

According to I Desak Putu Kartika Pratiwi, this program is expected not only to improve the quality of goba tea products but also to create new economic opportunities for the people of Bongan Village. “We want local products like goba tea to be recognized not only at the village or district level, but to reach national and even international markets,” she said.

By combining food technology innovations with digital marketing strategies, Pokdarwis Dewi Manis is now well-prepared to transform Bongan Village’s natural resources into high value-added products, while at the same time strengthening tourism appeal based on local wisdom.