Manufacture of carbonated tender coconut water and development of a process for the utilization of coconut flesh.

Abstract

According to previous research, tender coconut water (Cocos nucifera) is one of the highest sources of electrolytes known to man. It contains sugar, vitamins, minerals, potassium, magnesium, fibre, proteins and antioxidants. Coconut flesh is sweet and contains less sugar, more protein than many popular fruit. It has less fat, and these have a high proportion of saturated fat, and it is relatively high in minerals such as iron, phosphorus and zinc. Both tender coconut water and coconut flesh are used as food and medicine. Recently, modern medicinal research has confirmed many health benefits traditionally attributed to this remarkable tender coconut water and flesh. In this research the coconut was studied as a source of nutrients, as well as how to retain these nutrients during processing for the preparation of a carbonated beverage & coconut jam. Carbonated tender coconut water and coconut jam provide a range of nutrients which are necessary for human health. A series of chemical, nutrient and sensory tests for beverage and jam were conducted. The developed carbonated tender coconut water had many beneficial effects because it had added lime juice and vitamin C (ascorbic acid). According to analysis of the results, the two products are nutritionally rich.