Coconut Cake Recipe

Main Ingredients

For the cake:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 cups Coco House Organic Coconut Flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups Coco House Organic Coconut Sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the frosting:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 5 ounces whole fat cream cheese
  • 5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup whole or whipping cream
  • 1-2 cups coconut flakes
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PREPARATION

  • Pre-heat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit (180° celsius), and grease the surface of two cake pans (8 or 9 inch/20 – 22 cm in size) with butter. Then add a very light layer of flour and continue to grease it around the surface of the pans.

For the cake:

  • In a medium bowl, beat together the butter and the sugar at a moderate pace for 2 minutes until the paste is slightly thickened. Then, add the eggs and continue beating.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt at a moderate rate. Then, add milk and vanilla and continue to beat until the paste is stabilized.
  • Place the batter in the two pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the cake is golden brown (use a toothpick to test for stability). Take the cakes out of the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

For the frosting:

  • In a medium bowl, beat together the butter and the cream cheese at a moderate pace for 1 minute. Then add powdered sugar 1 cup at a time, whilst continuing to beat the mixture at a moderate pace. Add half a teaspoon of salt, add half a teaspoon of vanilla and beat the mixture for 3 minutes until a fluffy texture is obtained.
  • To frost the cake, flip around one of the cakes and add a layer of the frosting mixture, and then place the other cake on top.
  • Cover the cake with coconut flakes. (we did it with a handful and packed it gently on top of the cake). Enjoy!

3 Potential Skin Benefits of Drinking and Using Coconut Water

Coconut is often referred to as a tree of life since every part holds a purpose. One particular element of coconut is coconut water. While rich and refreshing, coconut water may not just be for quenching thirst; it may also be beneficial for the skin.

Although further research must be done to better solidify the use of coconut water on the skin, current studies do show promising results. But for now, let’s uncover what we know so far about the potential skin benefits of coconut water.

Coconut Water Is Great for Dry and Sensitive Skin

Water is excellent for the skin. It helps cleanse and moisturize skin. But does coconut water have the same benefits on the skin as normal water?

Well, according to Dr. Marie Hayag, a board-certified dermatologist, coconut water may nourish and help moisturize dry and sensitive skin. Its high electrolyte content may also help soothe the skin, according to Diane Madfes, MD. Dr. Madfes is a board-certified dermatologist and an assistant professor of dermatology at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City.

Coconut Water Can Help Fight Acne and Acne Scars

We’ve all had our fair share of run-ins with acne. But can applying coconut water to the skin help fight it?

According to a preliminary study in 2017, the antimicrobial properties of coconut water may help in fighting acne and acne scarring. However, current research is yet to yield significant evidence of coconut water’s healing powers against acne. So, instead of using coconut water alone to fight acne, it’s best to simply use it alongside your other skincare products to speed up the process. 

Coconut Water Promotes Anti-Aging

According to a study conducted in 2015 on rats, coconut water consumption was found to potentially boost the antioxidant system. This can lead to neutralization of free radical effects, promoting anti-aging.

However, the study focused only on the ingestion of coconut water. So, there is yet to be significant research on the topical application of coconut water for anti-aging.

Other Benefits of Coconut Water

While a topical application of coconut water to the skin may still be an area for further research, we do know that coconut water contains nutrients that can be beneficial when consumed. Coconut water contains many vitamins that may benefit the skin, such as vitamin B2, vitamin B3, and vitamin C.

When consumed, coconut water may increase collagen production and promote skin hydration and elasticity. This may reduce the presence of wrinkles and give the skin a healthy glow.

How to Apply Coconut Water on Your Face

There are many ways to include coconut water in your skincare routine. For one, you can use it to wash your face. You may also use it as a toner by applying it to the face using a cotton pad. Just make sure to follow it up with a moisturizer. You can also add a few drops of coconut water to your moisturizer for added hydration.

Coconut water can also be used in a mask. For this, you’ll need to combine two teaspoons of coconut water with half a teaspoon of honey and half a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Apply it to your skin and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing off.

Lastly, you may also use coconut water to refresh your skin. Place the coconut water in a mist bottle and spray it on your face throughout the day for that dewy effect.

Conclusion

While further research is indeed needed, current studies on coconut water’s benefits on the skin show promise. As long as you’re not allergic to coconut, consuming coconut water can be harmless and can even provide you with essential vitamins and electrolytes. For topical application, on the other hand, it’s best to simply use it alongside other skincare products and introduce it to your skincare routine gradually.

Whether for ingestion or topical application, Ceylon Exports & Trading can provide you with fresh organic coconut water. We are the finest coconut water exporters in Sri Lanka, providing quality coconut-based products sourced directly from the Sri Lankan Coconut Triangle. Contact us today to get started!

All About Coconut Sugar: A Nutritious Sugar Alternative

Treating yourself to some sweets can make you feel better and give you your much-needed energy boost. However, regular white sugar can increase your risk of different diseases. Fortunately, you can still indulge in delightful desserts while maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. You can do this by switching to organic coconut sugar.

What Is Coconut Sugar?

Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener sourced from the sap of coconut palm flowers. It has a unique caramel color and flavor that can boost the taste of any dish. To make this, there is a three-step process involved: extract, evaporate, and dehydrate. 

First,  the flower of the coconut palm is cut with its liquid sap collected. This sap is then evaporated completely to eliminate the water content. The residue left behind becomes coconut sugar.

Is Coconut Sugar Healthy? 

Coconut sugar is considered a healthier option than white sugar for several reasons. Unlike the regular sweetener, this organic option contains the following:

  • Vitamin C: The average adult is supposed to get a daily amount of 65-90 milligrams of vitamin C to effectively boost the immune system.
  • Antioxidants: Cells in your body can get damaged due to free radicals. Thankfully, this can be prevented or reduced by antioxidants.
  • Electrolytes: Coconut sugar is packed with natural electrolytes, such as magnesium, potassium, and sodium that regulate your body’s water content.
  • Nitrogen: Adding coconut sugar to your diet is beneficial for your cardiovascular system as it has some traces of nitrogen.
  • Minerals: You can get the minerals your body needs by switching to coconut sugar that contains zinc, iron, and calcium.
  • Short-Chain Fatty Acids: These are healthy fats that protect against high cholesterol and prevent different diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Additionally, they are the main source of nutrition for your colon.

What Are the Health Benefits of Coconut Sugar?

Besides the greater nutritional value your body receives, switching from white sugar to coconut sugar offers different health benefits. These include:

Low Glycemic Index and Less Sucrose Content

Satisfying your craving for sweets can uplift your mood, but having too much sugar can increase your risk of health conditions. The good news is that you can still enjoy desserts, smoothies, and other kinds of sweets as long as you use coconut sugar. Compared to white sugar, it has a low level of glycemic index, which means it has a less dramatic impact on your blood sugar levels.

Less Sucrose Consumption

Table sugar is considered pure sucrose, while coconut sugar only has 70-80 percent. This organic sweetener also has fiber and other nutrients to sweeten the deal. As you consume the same amount of sugar, you are increasing your nutrient intake when you use coconut sugar.

Provides a Better Alternative For Diabetic Patients

People with diabetes have to be extra careful about their sugar intake to decrease the risk of blood sugar spikes. Thankfully, coconut sugar has inulin that prevents a significant blood sugar level spike in the body. 

Conclusion

In the world of sweeteners, coconut sugar can be a good replacement for your regular store-bought option. But just like any other sugar, you should use it in moderation and consider its amount in calories and carbohydrates. This is why it’;s important to compare brands and purchase only from credible vendors.

Source your organic coconut sugar only from Ceylon Exports & Trading. We have a tree-to-table approach, which makes us the best organic coconut product supplier and exporter. Contact us to order a sample or schedule a free coconut consultation!

Everything You Need to Know About Creamed Coconut

Coconuts and coconut products have always held a special place in the culinary world. This is especially true for the best coconut products, as they can really enhance a dish when used correctly. Whether it be the fruit itself, the leaves, or the oil, people have always been able to use coconut in a variety of ways. 

Recently, one coconut product has been gaining popularity. Indeed, creamed coconut is slowly but surely becoming a mainstay in just about any kitchen. This is why we thought it would be helpful to have a short discussion about it. Today, we’ll be talking about what creamed coconut is, how it differs from other coconut products, and the best ways to use it. 

If this is something you’re interested in, read on as we break down everything you need to know about creamed coconut.

What is Creamed Coconut?

Creamed coconut is a jam-like ingredient that’s made by grinding the flesh of a coconut. This process is largely similar to that of peanut butter, which is why creamed coconut is often compared to coconut jam. However, one key difference is that creamed coconut does not make use of any sugar.

Another difference is that when it’s at room temperature, creamed coconut can be relatively firm. It only becomes cream-like when it’s exposed to gentle heat. Given its texture, you’d expect some form of stabilizers to be present, but real creamed coconut is entirely natural. It doesn’t make use of any additives, preservatives, or dyes. 

How Does It Differ From Other Coconut Products?

As we’ve mentioned above, creamed coconut share similar properties to other coconut ingredients and products. For the sake of clarity, we thought it would be useful to go through the list of similar products and point out what makes creamed coconut different.

While creamed coconut shares similar properties with coconut jam, creamed coconut looks more like coconut butter due to its firm texture. The flavor is also quite different as creamed coconut isn’t as sweet as coconut jam.

Speaking of coconut butter, creamed coconut is pretty much the same thing as coconut butter. In some recipes, they can even be used interchangeably. One key difference is that creamed coconut has fewer amounts of solidified coconut oil in the pack.

How Is It Used?

Due to its flavor profile, creamed coconut is used in desserts and other sweet dishes. In fact, it’s excellent to use as a cake topping. It’s also great on pancakes and can be used as a substitute for butter. All you need to do is scoop a tablespoon of creamed coconut and let it melt on top of the pancake.

Another great use of creamed coconut is making coconut milk. Just use a blender to mix 7 to 8 tablespoons of creamed coconut with a cup of water. For the best result, use water that’s at room temperature.

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped you better understand creamed coconut. While you still might not be familiar with how to use it, we suggest you give it a try. Learning how to use this ingredient effectively will improve just about any dish you make. Be sure to look back on this article if you are ever confused about handling this ingredient. 

If you’re looking to purchase bulk organic coconut oil and other coconut products in Sri Lanka, Ceylon Exports and Trading is here for you. We provide premium coconut products that are sourced directly from the Sri Lankan Coconut Triangle. Contact us today!

4 Ways You Can Use Medium Chain Triglyceride Coconut Oil

The world has always been abuzz about virgin coconut oil. This isn’t very surprising as it offers a wide variety of positive effects and uses that can benefit your health on a daily basis. Indeed, this substance can be used for pretty much anything. Whether it be for your skin or your hair, virgin coconut oil has cemented its place in the world as a versatile substance that is excellent for your overall well-being. Given how popular virgin coconut oil is, it’s a little disappointing that a similar substance that is just as beneficial isn’t really getting enough attention.

The product in question is medium-chain triglyceride coconut oil or MCT coconut oil. It is made from processing palm oil and coconut oil. Because of this process, MCT coconut oil only contains medium-chain triglycerides. So what does that mean? Basically, it means that these fatty acids are more easily absorbed into your body. This makes it a great source of energy as it has to go through fewer digestive steps. 

Like virgin coconut oil, MCT coconut oil also has an impressive list of uses and benefits. If you want to know more about this, read on as we list down four ways you can use MCT coconut oil!

It Can Help You Lose Weight

One of the more surprising effects that MCT coconut oil has on the body is its ability to promote weight loss. Studies have shown that people who take two tablespoons of MCT coconut oil at the start of the day end up feeling more full and eating less for lunch. This is because consuming the oil increases the release of hormones that make you feel more satiated. Moderate eating leads to sustainable weight loss in the long term.

It Can Give You a Burst of Energy

As we’ve already mentioned, MCT coconut oil, by nature, is absorbed by the body relatively quickly. Because of this, it can be used as an easy energy boost whenever you need it. This can be especially helpful for people on a ketogenic diet, as the MCTs can be converted into ketones in the liver. These ketones can then be used as an energy source for your neurons and other cells in the body.

It Can Help Athletes Perform Better

Aside from providing a boost of much-needed energy, MCT coconut oil can even help athletes perform better. This is because it reduces lactate buildup. In fact, cyclists who took 6 grams of MCT coconut oil had lower lactate levels while exercising. Couple this with the aforementioned energy-boosting capabilities, and it’s easy to see why MCT coconut oil can be great for athletes.

It Can be Used for Hair and Skin

Aside from increasing your energy levels and improving overall health, MCT coconut oil can also improve your hair and your skin. It is a fantastic skin moisturizer, and it can help reduce wrinkles and stretch marks. It can also act as a conditioner that will have your hair looking lush and healthy. All you have to do is leave it on for a few minutes before shampooing.

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped shed some light on the many benefits of MCT coconut oil. As you can see, this oil can help boost your overall health and help you take better care of your body. Now, before you try this, just be sure to clear it with your doctor to avoid allergic reactions and other side effects. 

If you’re looking to buy bulk organic coconut oil in Sri Lanka, Ceylon Exports & Trading is here for you. We provide premium coconut products that are sourced directly from the Sri Lankan Coconut Triangle. Contact us today!

The Magic of Coconut Oil: How Good Is It for the Hair?

You’ve seen and heard of it—coconut oil. It’s the latest buzzword in the health and beauty industry. Coconut oil is the go-to everything product. It can help with dry skin, remove makeup effectively, and some even go to the extent of using it as an alternative to a highlighter on the face. Why is it so good? 

Coconut Oil: The Benefits

There are many uses of coconut oil and many benefits, too. For one, it’s widely available—you can get it almost anywhere. Aside from that, it’s packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E. That’s why it’s the perfect remedy for dryness. 

Coconut oil also has high lauric acid content that can help reduce inflammation and can even treat acne. It has also been linked to burn fat due to the presence of medium-chain triglycerides. Finally, coconut oil can help kill bacteria and help with eczema. 

Coconut Oil and Hair Growth

You might have also heard about the effects of coconut oil on hair growth. The truth is, it doesn’t have a direct effect on hair growth, but it does bring some benefits that can improve hair health. Coconut oil can strengthen hair and nourish the scalp. Trust that it can help reduce hair breakage and make it less brittle. As a result, it can make your hair look healthier. 

Also, if you’re looking for a way to lengthen your hair, then you can count on coconut oil to help you with that. 

There are many ways you can use this wonderful oil on your hair. A popular method is using it as a hair mask. The good news is, making your own coconut oil hair mask is easy: 

  • Comb a generous amount of oil from the midsection of your hair to the tips. 
  • Wrap your hair in a bun and let it sit for a few hours. If you can, have it overnight. 
  • Rinse it off.

You can use a detangler if your hair is prone to tangles. With that, you can also use coconut oil as a regular hair conditioner. However, you need to wash it thoroughly to eliminate grease completely. 

Generally, coconut oil is safe for the hair, but it’s crucial you use the right amount. This is more important if you have fine hair; so, make sure you only apply enough amount of coconut oil on your hair. Otherwise, the oil can build up on your scalp and make your hair greasy. 

That’s why you only need to distribute it through the midsection of your hair and down to the ends. Also, make sure to avoid applying coconut oil to your roots and scalp. 

Moderation Is Key

Sure, coconut oil is good to use for the hair, but that doesn’t mean it will bring results overnight. Just like most things in this world, patience is the key. All you need to do is use it continuously to soften, soother, and nourish your scalp and strands. Over time, this can lead to healthier hair. 

If you’re looking to buy bulk organic coconut oil in Sri Lanka, Ceylon Exports and Trading is here for you. We provide premium coconut products that are sourced directly from the Sri Lankan Coconut Triangle. Contact us today!

The Snack You’ve Been Missing: 3 Benefits of Coconut Chips

The coconut is indeed the wonder fruit of the world! From its brown and tough surface down to its white and soft flesh, every part of the coconut can be used to build homes and furniture, cleaned and crafted into various tools, and are considered indispensable ingredients in several Asian cuisines. 

Thanks to its extreme versatility and wide availability, it’s no exaggeration to say that the coconut has had a significant impact on various countries worldwide.

The Coconut Chip

The coconut is indeed a wonder fruit that has many uses—the possibilities are endless! However, with the many things you can do with the wonder fruit, not many people would likely be aware of the scope of what you can do with it. 

Especially when it comes to food, you can do so much with the coconut’s flesh and juice. But, what many don’t know is that you can make more with this fruit. For example, did you know that you can also enjoy coconut meat by making them into chips?

These crispy, healthy goodies are produced from the fresh white meat of the coconut kernel and baked to turn it into a crisp, golden-brown snack. Coconut chips, such as ours at Ceylon Exports & Trading, are considered one of the best coconut products that you can eat straight up.

What Makes Coconut Chips the Perfect Snack?

When one thinks of “chip,” an image of the greasy, salty, and oily grocery-bought chips may come to mind. Well, coconut chips are pleasantly different! With toasted coconut meat, having a snack has never been better and healthier.

Slightly browned and sweet, these crunchy, healthy chips put a whole different meaning to what it means to snack! Apart from delighting in the enhanced flavor of coconut meat, coconut chips have countless benefits you can enjoy!

Rich in Dietary Fiber

Dietary fiber refers to the parts of plant foods that your body can’t absorb. Unlike fats, proteins, or carbohydrates, fiber can’t be broken down and absorbed by your body. 

Besides relieving constipation, eating fruits and snacks rich in dietary fiber can help you maintain a healthy weight, lower your risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. Since coconut chips are derived from coconut fruit, it’s one of the best snacks to eat if you’re looking for dietary fiber-rich foods.

An Excellent Source of Beneficial MCFAs

Coconut chips contain beneficial medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which are the good type of saturated fat that is later used by the body as energy. Unlike other types of fat that are just stored in your body, MCFAs support gut health and leave a well-rounded coating in the mouth, so you feel satisfied for a long time.

Easy to Carry Anywhere

Healthy snacking has never been this easy! Since coconut chips are super portable, you can have them anywhere and anytime. Depending on how much you bring, you can put them in your bag or just carry them in your hand. You can even share them with your friends to enjoy together!

Conclusion

Coconut chips are undoubtedly one of the best coconut products to ever come from the world’s wonder fruit! Healthy snacks don’t need to be complicated or expensive, and coconut chips prove just that. As long as you source your chips from a trusted supplier, you’re sure to have an enjoyable snack time every time!

Have you been looking for the best coconut products? At Ceylon Exports & Trading, we have everything you could ever want and more! As Sri Lanka’s finest wholesale coconut exporters and suppliers, we can guarantee that the coconut-based products we export and supply are fresh and organic. Shop our products today!

3 Nutritional & Health Benefits of a Desiccated Coconut

The coconut tree is not called the tree of life for no reason. This nature’s gift can be transformed into different varieties of food and even products. Think of the coconut fruit alone, as you can enjoy the coconut flesh as it is. On top of that, a bulk of organic coconut oil even has healing properties, and coconut milk makes many palatable cuisines. 

Another good thing about coconut is that every form has its own benefits. Desiccated coconut is dried coconut flesh in finer forms. It is typically made by grating the coconut flesh in smaller pieces before drying using hot air. 

In this article, we will focus on the amazing desiccated coconut in terms of its nutritional and health benefits:

It slows down metabolism

The number one and best reason to consume a desiccated coconut is that it is filled with dietary fibers. Keep in mind that the intestine cannot really burn down fibers. As fibers enter your system, the fluids in the body turn them into jelly-like substances that stick to your stomach. 

The fiber stays in the stomach for a while and releases the food slower than normal, resulting in you feeling full and slowing down metabolism rates. Fiber intake is also popular among people who want to lose weight because fiber can prevent the formation of fats on the belly. 

Another good thing about this is that it will promote a rich and even distribution of bacteria in your gut if you have enough fiber in your diet.

It prevents anemia

Surprisingly, desiccated coconut is rich in contents that you wouldn’t expect, such as iron. Iron is known for its benefit in preventing anemia. It is a mineral in the red blood cells that holds the oxygen as the RBC travels all over your body. 

In our earlier years in school, we were taught that red blood cells are responsible for transporting the oxygen from our lungs to every part of the body and the brain to help them function properly. 

Usually, iron is found in red meat and liver. This is indeed good news for people who don’t consume much of these foods. Coconut is an amazing alternative for people with iron deficiency. Simply add it to your food or drink to enjoy its benefits!

It strengthens bones and joints

When the coconut is tested on animals to test its effectiveness, it shows that the fatty acids in coconut prevent the degradation of the bones. As a result, coconut oil is considered beneficial for preventing osteoporosis and arthritis

The coconut never runs out of benefits. It is also found to have antioxidant properties, such as gallic acid, caffeic acid, salicylic acid, which are good for soothing pain and inflammation. It also showed positive effects on the weakened bones of those who consume it by food or through topical application. 

Conclusion

With what you have learned in this article, you can conclude that the coconut tree still deserves to be called the tree of life. If you want to boost your overall health and well-being, a coconut alone is enough for you to get full and hydrated. While nothing beats fresh fruit, consuming processed coconut is still a win.

If you simply love coconut or you’re after its amazing benefits, get your coconut supplies from the best coconut supplier in Sri Lanka. Ceylon Exports and Trading has all the coconut products that you need so you can enjoy the most of its benefits. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

Consider the Coconut: 4 Things You Need to Know About It

Coconuts are amazing fruits that produce some of the finest products, like coconut water, coconut oil, and coconut milk. These items all have a different place in the kitchen and serve different purposes. For those who don’t know much about coconut-derived products, here are some common FAQs you may have.

4 Common Coco-Questions About Coconut 

Is Coconut Water Healthy?

Coconut water is the juice that you get straight out of the shell. It’s sweet and is considered a great energizing drink since it is filled with a lot of electrolytes. It is also low in calories, full of potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and overall serves as a healthy drink that can quench your thirst on a hot day. 

It is full of natural sugar, which means you can’t drink it as much as regular water. Nevertheless, it is a healthy juice that you can regularly have. Try to avoid those commercial products that add coloring and extra sugar. 

Does Coconut Add Flavour to Every Dish Cooked with It?

Coconut is a very versatile fruit. It can be strong enough to become the central flavor of many dishes, or it can be ever so subtle that it solely just contributes to food’s texture or highlights the taste of something else. 

Coconut milk is one of the ingredients of curry, which is an example of how it can elevate the spices and add creaminess to the sauces without overpowering the flavor. The same product can be used in desserts like coconut pudding, where its taste is the star of the show.

Can You Cook with Coconut Oil?

Yes, you can! In fact, coconut oil is a great kind of cooking oil that works with searing and sauteing. It also makes a great vegan baking substitute for butter when you need to grease the pan. 

Despite having a strong scent of coconut in it, you won’t taste it when you use it to fry things. This oil is fairly neutral in flavor when in this state, so if you don’t want your chicken nuggets to taste like coconut, rest assured that it won’t leave that at all.

Is Coconut Milk a Good Alternative to Regular Milk?

If you’re asking for a substitute for milk you can drink straight up, coconut milk is not it. This milk is full of plant-based fat that isn’t palatable to consume on its own. However, it does make a good alternative if you’re looking to mix things with it. If you were whipping up some summer milk-based cocktails or milkshakes, coconut milk is a great dairy-free substitute. 

Conclusion

Coconut is more than just a nice fruit flavor to add to drinks and dishes. It’s good enough to eat on its own and can make great products that all serve a purpose in the kitchen. Some coconut products can add the distinct taste of coconut, while others don’t leave a hint at all. This fruit and (sort of) giant nut is a force of nature that is worth applauding for its versatility.

For the best coconut products to try, your best bet is to get them fresh. Ceylon Exports & Trading is one of Sri Lanka’s premium wholesale exporters and suppliers of coconuts and coconut products around the world. Our products are also tree-to-table,” which ensure quality and pleasant products to choose from. Visit our website today!

2020 Coconut Market Update

Sri Lanka’s Coconut Export Industry – Where are We Now?

Sri Lanka’s Position as an Exporter of Coconut Products

Sri Lanka has been exporting coconut-based products since the 19th century, when the country was still under British colonial rule. Over the years, the industry has grown and evolved in a number of ways, and today, Sri Lanka is the fourth-largest exporter of coconut products to the world. The country’s coconut export performance (in value) has grown steadily over the past decade. In 2020, the export earnings from coconut products were US dollars 664.58 million vs. US dollars 613.84 million in 2019. In short: coconut business in Sri Lanka is booming, making it arguably one of the best coconut exporters in the world.

Coconut Export Growth Statistics 2010 - 2020

From a market perspective, emerging economies in Latin American markets, Eastern Europe, and East Asia have recorded a higher percentage of growth, whilst more established markets in North America and Western Europe have recorded a lower percentage growth. However, it is important to note that the former is growing from a much smaller base as opposed to the latter. Looking at the export figures from 2020, the value of coconut products exported to the USA amounts to US dollars 122.33 million, whilst the second highest market in terms of value is Germany, with exports amounting to US dollars 54.95 million.

Country wise sri lanka coconut exports 2020

The three main categories of coconut products exported to the world market include, coconut kernel products, coconut fibre products and coconut shell products. Of these, the most popular Sri Lankan coconut kernel export products are desiccated coconut, virgin coconut oil and coconut water. Other notable products include organic coconut milk and organic coconut sugar. 

Coconut edible market breakdown Sri Lanka exports

Looking at the performance of the product categories over the past three years, it is important to highlight that Sri Lanka had a very high coconut harvest in 2019, which resulted in coconut prices reducing drastically. So, the export value of a number of product categories reduced in 2019, compared to the preceding year.

Desiccated coconut exports grew massively in 2019 because of a boost in demand from the Indian market. The South Asia Free Trade Agreement enabled many Indian businesses to import desiccated coconut from Sri Lanka to fulfil the demand in the Indian market. However, towards the latter part of 2019, the Indian government placed protectionist duties on Sri Lankan desiccated coconut and the demand for the product from the Indian market reduced drastically.

The demand for liquid coconut milk has steadily increased over the past three years, resulting in 2020 recording a high export value of US dollars 94.98 million for that segment. The value of coconut oil and coconut cream exports too increased significantly from 2019 to 2020.

The Growing Demand for Coconut Products in 2020

The COVID pandemic and resulting lockdowns experienced throughout the world have had a detrimental impact on many industries, with a number of businesses shutting down completely. However, the same cannot be said of the coconut business in Sri Lanka. On the contrary, the demand for certain coconut products grew explosively, leading to the industry performing better in 2020, compared to the preceding year. Highlighted below are some of the key factors that can be attributed to this growth.

Lockdown Boredom – with people stuck in their homes for the better part of 2020, there was an increased interest in cooking and baking. People were forced to prepare their meals at home instead of going out to restaurants. They were also forced to look for activities to keep themselves occupied and entertained. Making an effort in the kitchen, learning new recipes and experimenting with ingredients became the norm for many in 2020.

Renewed Focus on Health and Wellness – as a result of being confined to their homes, people had time to stop and take a hard look at their lifestyles and make changes for the better. Building immunity and paying attention to health and wellness became a priority for many, with wholesome foods becoming a focus area. Coconut is considered a super food on a global level, so understandably the consumer buying pattern shifted in favour of coconut products.

Sri Lanka’s coconut export industry recorded a 33% dollar value growth in virgin coconut oil, 47% dollar value growth in coconut cream and 87% dollar value growth in coconut flour from 2019 to 2020 .

Furthermore, the coconut harvest in Sri Lanka fell by 15% in 2020 vs. the 2019 average, whilst the demand for the best coconut products increased on a global level. This led to a doubling of coconut prices in the first three quarters of 2020, and a tripling of coconut prices in the last quarter of 2020.

Another important fact to consider is that people are increasingly becoming far more conscious of where their food comes from. The focus on organic produce and the ‘farm to table’ concept is growing in popularity and is not just a fad any more. Sri Lanka is known to produce high-quality products such as virgin coconut oil, coconut cream and desiccated coconut, so there is an increased demand for them. By extension, organic coconut sugar, organic coconut milk, organic coconut flour, and the like, have also enjoyed greater demand.

Sri Lanka’s Coconut Export Products and Markets

USA is currently the number one buyer of coconut products exported from Sri Lanka, leading the table (in terms of dollar value) in the categories of desiccated coconut, coconut oil, coconut cream and coconut flour.

Sri Lanka’s desiccated coconut product is very popular in the world market, due to its distinguishable white hue, rich taste and texture. It is used by many leading international chocolate and biscuit manufacturers because of its unmatched quality. Liquid coconut milk, virgin coconut oil and coconut cream are also popular coconut exports from Sri Lanka, and have recorded double-digit growth from 2019 to 2020 (in dollar value). The key markets for these four products in 2020 were USA and Western Europe. See below for the emerging markets in the edible coconut products categories.

Product Category Emerging Market Growth % (2019-2020)USD Value
Liquid Coconut Milk Canada 138%
Spain 231%
Coconut Oil Canada 228%
Spain 252%
Coconut Cream Austria 130%
Sweden 233%
Coconut Milk Powder USA 305%
Coconut Flour Canada 140%
Chile 700%
Coconut Water Italy 600%

Source: Sri Lanka Export Development Board – Export Statistics

Whilst the coconut manufacturers in Sri Lanka continue to supply the global market with the aforementioned products, it also needs to consider expanding the portfolio to include products that show indications of increasing in demand in the near future.

“As more people throughout the world begin to recognise the benefit of coconut as a super food, the demand for coconut snack products, coconut-based meat alternatives and MCT oil are forecasted to rise. The time is now for Sri Lankan manufacturers to capitalise on the demand potential and develop products that will cater to the needs of a generation that is more conscious and cautious of consuming wholesome and healthy foods,” says Chandika Perera, CEO – Ceythe Japan Co. Ltd. (Saitama, Japan).

Maximising the Potential for Supply Growth

The supply of coconut is on a secular decline globally, whilst the demand appears to be growing steadily. The coconut yield per hectare is reducing in the three largest coconut product exporting nations – Philippines, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. This has been the case for the last few decades as the farming community does not see a high return in the coconut plantation business, when compared with alternatives. As a result, coconut estates have been neglected, with no replanting or proper irrigation systems being put in place, leading to low yield per hectare. However, since the demand for the best coconut products is on a rise globally, there is an opportunity for the coconut industry in Sri Lanka to fill the potential void in the market.

Coconut Yield

Sri Lanka’s Coconut Research Institute (CRI) has been actively supporting the industry for just over 90 years. The Institute’s first Corporate Plan was developed for the period 2008-2012, with the second plan coming into effect from 2013-2017.

Some of the landmark achievements of the Corporate Plans were:

  • Development of high-yielding hybrids
  • Soil fertility management through agroforestry systems
  • Development of a process-based yield prediction model
  • Identification of drought tolerant hybrids
  • Integrated nutrient management
  • Introduction of new coconut products

The third Strategic Plan for 2016-2020 emphasises research on rehabilitation of coconut lands, improvement of soil quality, coconut cultivation in non-traditional areas and managing uncertainty of yield and markets.

“With a growing demand for coconut products in the global market, Sri Lanka needs to focus more attention on increasing supply and competitiveness. It is inevitable that climatic conditions will have an effect on the yield, but we can take advantage of advances in technology and predictive analysis to mitigate the consequences of unpredictable weather conditions,” says Devinda de Silva, COO – Rockland Distilleries.

“Sri Lankan coconut plantations are largely neglected. The analysis of available data points to the fact that the overall crop can be increased by a minimum of 30% via better watering systems and smart fertilizing mechanisms. Well-planned irrigation systems and compost/circular economy fertilizer systems can also have a significant impact on increasing the coconut harvest. We must also dedicate more research and development into hybrid coconut plants that yield coconuts in a shorter time period and last for longer,” he adds.

Coconut Processing

According to Jason Samaranayake, CEO – Mathammana D/C Mills (Minuwangoda, Sri Lanka), “Automation is critical if we are to increase the productivity and per capita income of the workers in the coconut processing industry.”

The coconut deshelling and peeling processes, which are the most labour-intensive steps in any coconut processing facility, are gradually being semi and fully automated by coconut suppliers in Sri Lanka. This helps increase factory productivity as the number of coconuts processed per day increases significantly. The semi-automated machinery at the deshelling stage is not expensive to install or maintain. However, workers will need to become more technical and upskill to retain their jobs.

“Deshelling coconuts has gone from being a heavily labour-intensive process to being semi-automated at many facilities across the island. What this means is that a person who was earlier able to cut about 2,500 coconuts a day can now cut between 3,500-4,000 coconuts a day. The benefit is twofold – it is an efficiency improvement for the processing facility, and it also means the worker gets paid more, as his/her output increases considerably,” says Samaranayake.

Challenges Faced by Coconut Product Exporters

Trade fairs are one of the key channels available to exporters to connect with international buyers and grow the market. However, trade fairs have become increasingly expensive over the years, benefiting larger exporters over smaller ones.

“The cost for participating in a trade fair has grown drastically over the years with exporters currently having to spend a minimum of LKR 2 million per exhibition, for travel, accommodation and setting up a stall. This is a huge investment for smaller players who are just starting out in the industry, and not many can really justify the spend,” says Dulara de Alwis, CEO – Ceylon Exports & Trading Pvt Ltd (Dankotuwa, Sri Lanka). “Ceylon Exports & Trading has largely overcome this using a digital strategy to market our products and capabilities to the world. We have used Google SEO strategies such as a keyword strategy to measure global demand, developed our website information architecture based on keyword strategy, and optimised overall website content and meta titles and descriptions to serve user intent. Additionally, we have established our brand on social media platforms, registered on a number of B2B portals, and utilised global directories and the strength of Sri Lanka’s global embassy network to create client rapports via e-mail, WhatsApp and Zoom.”

The lack of effective communication skills and slow technology adoption is another challenge that many businesses face in Sri Lanka.

De Alwis says, “we are a small populous economy with 22 million people. So, in order to grow economically, we have to better integrate with the world economy through trade and other means. This becomes challenging when large numbers within our workforce still lack the ability to communicate effectively in English and other international languages. Similarly, a sizeable portion of the Sri Lankan population is not yet digitally savvy, which means that we are unable to keep up with the expectations of the global marketplace in terms of efficiency and turn-around times.”

How Can Government Support More?

The coconut export industry is supported by the Coconut Research Institute, Coconut Development Authority and Coconut Cultivation Board, all of which fall under the purview of the Ministry of Plantation Industries. Each institute works towards the overall development of the coconut industry in Sri Lanka, and undertakes responsibilities which include, generating knowledge and technology for increased yield, improving productivity and processes and providing market opportunities for coconut producers.

“Whilst we are grateful for the support given by the three government institutions dedicated to the coconut industry, we feel that there are some vital gaps that need to be addressed on a priority basis,” says de Alwis.

Trade Agreements – are critical to take advantage of our many competitive advantages. Countries provide a tax advantage for those importing in bulk (as an intermediate good) versus those importing in retail value added form (as a finished good). The former provides much less margins, and is more commoditized.

Geographical Indicators – it is now more important than ever to establish geographical indicators in the agri product space. Although Sri Lanka’s agri produce is known for its high quality globally, it is not known for saleable amounts of volume and cheap prices. Therefore, there is a clear need to drive a paradigm shift to bring more attention to Sri Lankan/Ceylon Coconut – to position it similar to Ceylon Tea and Ceylon Cinnamon.

“Sri Lanka’s Coconut Triangle has the best soil and climatic conditions for growing nutrient rich coconut. In my opinion, that by itself is a Geographical Indicator that we need to create more awareness about on a global level. It definitely needs to be in the limelight, to be communicated by our entire industry. We have a high-value product, and it needs to be recognised for what it is,” says Dulara.

Developing New Products & Sales Strategies

Since the end of colonisation, Sri Lanka has built a reputation for providing the world with high-quality agri products such as Ceylon Tea, Ceylon Cinnamon, Ceylon Cashews and Ceylon Coconut to name a few. Unfortunately, very little of the global sale value has trickled down to Sri Lanka and its hard-working farming and processing community. This needs to change through a paradigm switch, including geographical indicators (GI) and global brand building initiatives.

Many within the Sri Lankan export sector recognise that establishing geographical indicators is now more important than ever in the agri produce space. Although Sri Lanka’s agri produce is of high quality, there isn’t enough awareness globally. The government needs to push harder on creating GI’s for our export products and accelerate efforts to bring more attention to products (similar to Ceylon Tea), as well as growing regions such as ‘the Sri Lankan Coconut Triangle’, to bring provenance similar to French Wine or Swiss Cheese.

Coconut manufacturers in Sri Lanka, too, need to do their part to build brands globally. For example, Ceylon Exports & Trading has built Coco House, the first fully owned ‘tree-to-table’ Sri Lankan coconut brand, which is steadily establishing itself as a brand that curates authentic and innovative coconut products sourced directly from the famous Sri Lankan coconut triangle, offering a transparent value chain. When Sri Lankan manufacturers build locally owned brands which are recognised in the global market, it is more likely that a greater percentage of the value margin of the retail price of products will reach the farming and processing communities.

Sri Lanka’s coconut industry needs to look at food innovations to expand the export market. Meat alternative plant-based products is a category that is exploding in demand globally for sustainable and ethical reasons, and there is great potential for coconut manufacturers in Sri Lanka to meet this demand.

Sharing her thoughts about the sector, Randhula de Silva, CEO & Founder – Goodlife X says, “the multiple innovations taking place in the industry from a demand and supply perspective, as well as the vast potential for manufacturers to experiment and introduce brand-new products to the market are what keep us excited and hopeful for the future. At the end of the day, the success of the industry can have such a positive impact on livelihood development and the country’s economy overall, and that is why we persevere in the face of challenges.”

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