Among the different members of the palm family, the Coconut tree is acknowledged as the ‘tree of life’ on account of the various products derived from its various parts that contribute to feeding people and helping to support their health needs.
The coconut palm has flourished in the tropics, including large parts of the Caribbean and South America. It is cultivated in more than eighty countries the world over. Ironically, it is believed that its full benefits still remain underexploited.
The value-added products to be derived from the coconut include coconut water, coconut oil, virgin coconut oil, coconut meat, coconut milk, coconut powder, and coconut flour.
Coconut water: Widely believed to be the world’s most consumed beverage, coconut water is extracted from young, green coconuts. The beverage is particularly valued for its electrolytes, including potassium, magnesium.
Coconut Oil: One of the healthiest oils available for human consumption, coconut oil is used in pursuit of a number of health-related issues both within and outside the human body. Coconut oil helps in the loss of body fat and improves the quality and strength of human hair.
Coconut meat: This is the white, fleshy part of the coconut that contains coconut oil as well as vitamins A and E, polyphenols, and phytosterols – all of which work together to decrease cholesterol levels. Coconut meat can be eaten raw, cooked, or toasted.
Coconut flour: Grain and gluten-free flour derived from coconut meat in powdered form. It is highly rated for its ability to help in the control of diabetes. Coconut flour is an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivity and wheat-related allergies. The milk must be separated from the meat in order to produce the dry flour. Once the separation is complete the meat is baked at a low temperature to dry. The end result is a powdery flour made entirely of coconut.
Coconut milk: This is the liquid that comes from the grated meat of a mature coconut. Its creamy texture is similar to cow’s milk. The taste, consistency, and health benefits make it a great milk substitute. An added benefit is its lactose-free nature.
In recent years the coconut has undergone a complete global image makeover mostly on account of the stunning increase in coconut water consumption and the use of coconut oil in cosmetics and for its health and healing properties.
The global virgin coconut market is anticipated to deliver US$4.2 billion by 2024.
The coconut industry in Guyana has enjoyed mixed fortunes and the current thrust is focussed on rebuilding the sector, including the vast expanses of coconut groves across the country that have fallen into disuse. The industry has also attracted some level of foreign investment.
