The humble coconut is trending now, and how!

From its use in culinary items to its eco-friendly benefits, the humble coconut has found its way into various aspects of modern life. We’re sure you have already used it in its more common forms, including coconut water, milk and oil, as well as its freshly grated and dried desiccated flesh. But the juicy, mildly sweet, vitamin B-rich fruit has more versatile uses. On this World Coconut Day, Village Square brings to you some contemporary ways in which coconuts are being enjoyed. 

Coconut sugar

Coconut sugar is a plant-based and minimally processed alternative to regular white and brown sugar. It’s made from the sap of coconut palm trees, which is collected and placed under heat, till the liquid evaporates and the sugar remains. On this World Coconut Day, we must remind you that coconut sugar is rich in nutrients and serves as a natural sweetener with a distinct flavour. It is used to add sweetness to snacks and beverages. With a lower glycaemic index, coconut sugar also helps one stay healthy. 

Nata de coco

Also known as coconut jelly, nata de coco is a chewy coconut jelly made from fermented coconut water. It can popularly be seen in drinks, desserts and salads, and also be consumed on its own. First produced in the Philippines, nata de coco was initially introduced as an alternative to nata de piña, a seasonal dessert made from pineapple juice. Today this coconut jelly is widely produced in southeast Asian countries and is a favourite among those fond of coconuts and jellies.

MCT oil

MCT oil (medium-chain triglyceride oil) is a dietary supplement gaining popularity due to the potential health benefits that it offers. This oil has a higher concentration of medium-chain triglycerides than regular coconut oil, though it is also derived from coconut or palm oil. Consuming MCT oil is believed to aid weight loss, and it also serves as a good source of energy. It can be used in salad dressings, smoothies or taken on its own.

Also Read: This venture is all about Konkan coconuts

Coconut cream

Made from coconut milk, this is a type of thick cream used in a range of recipes. It’s known for its distinct coconut flavour and fluffy, creamy texture. Since it’s dairy-free, coconut cream serves as a good alternative to regular cream and thus is used in several vegan dishes. In India, coconut milk and coconut cream are used in a variety of curries and desserts. 

Coconut cutlery

With the rise in the search for sustainable alternatives to plastic cutlery, spoons and forks made from coconut have emerged as a viable option. On this World Coconut Day, you may try cutlery made from coconut fibre and shells which is lightweight, durable and moisture-resistant while being 100 percent biodegradable. Besides being eco-friendly, cutlery made from coconut shells also brings a warm and unique aesthetic to the kitchen. This cutlery also serves as a great gifting option. 

Coco peat

Coco peat, made of coconut husk, is widely used for gardening and other horticultural uses. It can be found in bricks or blocks as a potting mix for plants. It is a fibrous material that allows adequate aeration around plant roots and has a high water-holding capacity to help maintain optimum moisture in the potting mixes. It also contains essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium which boost plant health. Coco peat is also widely employed in hydroponics, erosion control and seed-starting.

Coconut carbon

Activated coconut shell carbon is a form of activated carbon that has seen a surge in its usage lately. It is widely used in water and air purification, healthcare and the food industry. Being an eco-friendly renewable resource also adds to its increased demand. Activated coconut carbon is effectively being employed globally in air and water pollution management as well as waste treatment. 

Also Read: Farmers grow coconuts in deserts to improve livelihoods

The lead image on top shows tender and mature coconuts, a versatile food that’s used not just in the kitchen, but for other purposes too. (Photo courtesy Shutterstock)