Written and Published by BMT Foods, May 16, 2023
Coconut trees are often referred to as the “Tree of Life” because every part of the tree can be used. The fronds, or whole leaves, are used as roofing for huts in the tropics, the wood from old trees can be turned into coco lumber, and the husks can be turned into coco coir fiber or rope.
What is young coconut?
Young coconut, also known as green or tender coconut, are about 7 to 8 months old when they are at their best state for food production. This is different from the brown and mature coconut which are usually harvested at one year of age.
Thailand has an exceptional variety of coconut called Nam Hom. This variety is sweeter than most and has unique fragrance that makes it ideal for use in Coconut Water and Young Coconut Meat production.
Young coconuts are used to produce a variety of industrial food products, including the below:
Tender Coconut Water:
Young coconut water is different from mature coconut water in terms of sweetness and taste. Mature coconut water will have more fat and minerals, while young coconut water tends to be sweeter but still has vitamins and electrolytes that people are looking for.
Young Coconut Meat:
Young coconut meat comes from the green coconut and is a lot softer and thinner than matured coconut meat. It is also sweeter which makes it ideal for use in desserts or as an inclusion in coconut water beverages. With Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) and selenium, young coconut meat is an easy and natural way to incorporate these fats and minerals often sold as supplements into your diet.
Coconut Nectar:
Although not coming from the actual coconut, this product comes from the sap at the top of the tree which if left untouched would eventually sustain the growth of coconuts. A coconut tree can either produce nuts or coconut nectar, but not both. Once the nectar is harvested that portion of the tree will not flower and produce coconuts.
Since the nectar would support the growth of a coconut, coconut nectar has a high level of minerals and amino acids with a low glycemic index. This has made it a great sweetener for diabetics, and either in its liquid form as nectar, or dry form as coconut sugar, it continues to gain popularity as a substitute for cane sugar.
Overall, Young Coconut products are a great and healthy food ingredient.
Young Coconut’s versatility makes it ideal for use in many different food and beverage products. BMT Foods stands ready to meet your Young Coconut product needs. Please contact us today to learn more.
