"Cheese tea" is becoming a popular menu item across Asia, and CHIZU is one brand that's proudly calling itself "the premium Japanese cheese drink in Malaysia."
The term "cheese drink" accurately describes the two main components of the beverage—on top of a base of some type of fruit or herbal tea, a thick, frothy layer of cream cheese is added. Depending on the flavors desired, these drinks are enhanced with garnishes to add sweet or salty notes.
Due to the combination of cheese and tea, there is a specific way that the beverages are to be consumed for the best flavor experience. Although there are lids that are included with the beverages to prevent spills, consumers are meant to drink the cheese tea straight from the cup without a straw. Even tough this is less convenient than sipping from a straw and this method will create something like a milk moustache on one's face, this has become a charming selling feature of the drinks.
Cheese-Topped Tea Drinks
CHIZU Brands Itself as Malaysia's Premium 'Cheese Drink'
Trend Themes
1. Cheese Tea - There is a growing trend of cheese-topped tea drinks that combine a base of fruit or herbal tea with a layer of cream cheese.
2. Flavor-enhanced Drinks - Cheese tea beverages are being enhanced with garnishes to add sweet or salty notes, offering new flavor profiles for consumers.
3. Unique Consumption Experience - Drinking cheese tea straight from the cup without a straw has become a charming selling feature, creating a unique and memorable experience for consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Beverage Industry - The beverage industry can explore opportunities to create and market innovative cheese-topped tea drinks with different flavor profiles.
2. Hospitality Industry - Hotels, cafes, and restaurants in Asia can incorporate cheese tea beverages into their menus to attract customers seeking unique and trendy experiences.
3. Food Packaging Industry - With the specific consumption method of cheese tea, the food packaging industry can develop specialized lids or cups to enhance the drinking experience and prevent spills.