The coconut tree, a significant cash crop in India, is primarily cultivated in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. In Tamil Nadu, the Coconut Development Project has greatly boosted coconut plantations and production. Due to improved high-yielding varieties, coconut yield has increased significantly, leading to an excess in the market. To make the most of coconut farming, it is essential to focus on value-added coconut products, rather than selling just raw coconuts or coconut oil.
Products from the Coconut Tree:
- Tender Coconut Water
Tender coconut water, a natural and refreshing drink, is rich in sugars, minerals, and proteins, supporting digestion. Techniques for preserving and packaging it have been developed, enabling it to stay fresh for three months at room temperature and six months when refrigerated. - Desiccated Coconut Powder
The mature coconut kernel is dried and processed into fine powder, which is used in sweets, cakes, and breads. Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh produce this powder, which can be stored long-term if kept free from bacteria and moisture. - Coconut Cream
Extracted from mature coconuts, coconut cream is used in baked goods like biscuits and bread. This valuable commercial product is highly used in countries such as Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore. - Coconut Milk Powder
Coconut milk, once extracted and filtered, is dried into a powder that can last up to 18 months without spoiling. This powder is used in various food items and dissolves easily in water, recreating fresh coconut milk. - Coconut Shreds
Coconut shreds are made by grating the coconut kernel. They can be sweetened or flavored for snack products like chips, providing a crunchy texture. These shreds can be a profitable home business for women. - Coconut Milk
Fresh coconut milk, pressed from grated coconut, enhances the flavor and nutritional value of dishes. With both foreign and local extraction methods available, coconut milk can also be processed into powder or paste. - Palm Sugar
Sap collected from unflowered coconut palms is boiled to make palm sugar. Known for its medicinal properties, palm sugar is used across India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Malaysia. - Coconut Vinegar
Produced from mature coconut water through fermentation, coconut vinegar is used in cooking. The yeast in coconut water converts it into alcohol, which is then transformed into vinegar. - Nata de Coco
A jelly-like product made from coconut water through fermentation, Nata de Coco is popular in various desserts and beverages. It is also used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical capsules and surgical threads. - Copra
Dried coconut (copra) is a primary source of coconut oil, obtained by sun-drying mature coconut kernels. This oil is used in cooking, beauty products, and even in manufacturing. - Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is highly beneficial for health, known for its ability to strengthen the immune system. It is used in cooking, skincare, and hair care, and in manufacturing biscuits and chocolates. - Coconut Cake
The residue after extracting oil from copra, coconut cake is used as animal feed due to its nutritional value. - Virgin Coconut Oil
Extracted through fermentation, virgin coconut oil is used in medicinal applications and is even suitable for infants, as it contains nutrients similar to breast milk. - Coconut Fiber
The fibrous husk surrounding the coconut is used to make ropes, brushes, and mats. Quality fiber can be processed into high-grade coir, which is valued for its resilience and is used in floor mats and mattresses. - Coir Pith
Coir pith is used in creating compost, which retains water and can be used as a growing medium for seedlings. - Coconut Charcoal
Coconut charcoal is used in several industries for its absorption properties, especially in filtering pollutants. Activated charcoal made from coconut shell is valuable worldwide. - Coconut Leaves
Dried coconut leaves are woven into roofing material, which helps cool buildings and provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional roofing. - Handicrafts
Coconut shells are used to make a variety of handicrafts, from cups to decorative items. These products have a demand in international markets.
Coconut farmers can greatly increase their income by producing these value-added products. Training and support for processing these products can be obtained from the Coconut Development Board.
Dr. A. Bharathi, Agricultural Research Center, Pattukottai, Dr. K.S. Vijay Selvaraj, Dr. A. Karthikeyan, Coconut Research Center, Veppankulam, Thanjavur
