Protein and Coconut: Practicing a Healthy Diet

We all know by now that protein is a vital nutrient that our bodies require for a wide range of biological processes. It also aids digestion and promotes muscle growth.

Today, protein is the most sought-after nutrient because of the importance it plays in our eating patterns. However, some people’s diets do not contain enough protein. Due to this, protein deficiency could occur. Thus, it is important to identify protein deficiency and watch out for its warning signs.

Protein consumption can also help with weight loss and achieving fitness goals. This is why people all throughout the world are increasingly expressing their desire to consume more protein in their diets.

Luckily for those with protein deficiency and those with fitness goals, coconut is one of today’s most accessible and effective protein sources. 

Read on to discover more about protein deficiency, coconut, and how you can practice a healthy diet today.

Identifying Protein Deficiency

Protein deficiency symptoms are extremely common. Symptoms include obvious signs such as receding hair and a frail appearance.

If you don’t eat enough protein, you may get unhealthy, pale skin. Protein-rich diets promote the formation of beautiful, healthy skin.

Feelings of weakness and weariness are other indicators. People who eat a high-protein diet are more robust and active.

Without enough protein in your system, your wounds and injuries may take longer to heal. Protein amino acids promote healing.

Protein-deficient people may also crave sweets much more than the average person. Protein has the ability to regulate blood sugar.

It’s possible that not obtaining enough protein is causing you sleep issues as well. This is because the structure of protein contains amino acids. These acids have a soothing impact on the body.

It is likely that not obtaining enough protein will harm your immune system. As a result, you are more likely to catch infectious diseases.

The Expansion of the Protein Powder Industry

Almost on a daily basis, we witness people continually look for new ways to improve their daily protein consumption. As such, protein powder has expanded its market for a thriving industry.

Protein powder has made it much easier to meet the needs that must be addressed on a daily basis. To get enough protein, you don’t need to make any adjustments to your diet or routine as protein powder can go in smoothies, as well as other liquids.

With protein powder, you will no longer be protein deficient! 

Coconut Protein: Your #1 Protein

Given the abundance of other powdered protein sources, it is critical to understand the reasons for the extensive use of coconut protein. While it’s true that protein powder is convenient, some people are simply not a fan of this product. Instead, they can go the natural route and seek coconut protein.

Consuming coconut protein as a better choice can be defended in several ways. Perhaps its delightful flavor makes it easy to consume more protein on a regular basis. It is an excellent complement to practically any dish and it could give you the right amount of fruit servings per day.

Adding more protein to your diet by consuming coconut protein is a straightforward strategy, and you won’t have to give up anything in the process. Nowadays, it is also available in powder form and concentrates.

Conclusion

Some people may never get enough of consuming protein. This might be due to the fact that protein helps them function at their best on a daily basis. Protein can simply provide your body with the energy it needs, and more. Thus, allow yourself to enjoy the process by trying coconut protein (and sticking by it)!

If you want to shop for coconut protein powder, Ceylon Exports & Trading is your go-to source for premium “tree-to-table” Coco House products. You’re assured of quality and ethically sourced Sri Lanka coconut that caters to all your needs with us. Shop our collection today!

A Quick Crash Course on Coconut Powder and Its Benefits

Coconut is a very versatile fruit, with a hard shell on the outside and a jelly-like flesh on the inside. It is a highly nutritious food with a rich source of essential nutrients, including minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. And notably, it’s known best for coconut water.

Meanwhile, coconut powder is quite underrated even though it is a great ingredient that makes dishes more nutritious. Continue reading for a crash course on coconut powder’s wonder and its benefits.

What Exactly Is Coconut Powder?

Coconut powder is a concentrated form of coconut nut meat that’s been dried into a powder. Traditionally, it was used to preserve coconut meat throughout the year. Today, people are consuming it on top of cereal, pancakes, smoothies, muffins, and more. Like most dried food products, coconut powder is produced through a dehydration process.

How Is Coconut Powder Used?

Many people use coconut powder to make a variety of dishes that require coconut. Mix the additive with some water to form a paste and use it to thicken soups and curries. Or even add it to smoothies, shakes, and other drinks. If one wants to go back to basics, mixing coconut powder with milk can make another popular variant of this delicious fruit: coconut milk.

What’s the Ample Dosage of Coconut Powder?

To start, one can easily consume one teaspoon of coconut powder a day in their chosen food or drink, but this can be increased gradually up to about two teaspoons a day for one serving. Do keep in mind that consuming large amounts of coconut powder can result in stomach discomfort, cramps, and nausea, so take everything in moderation.

What Are the Benefits of Using Coconut Powder?

Coconut powder is loaded with several minerals, including potassium and calcium. Along with that, it’s also rich in antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin B1, thiamin, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, and vitamin E. Other benefits also include:

  • Consume Healthy Saturated Fats. Coconut powder is a good source of saturated fats that are a significant source of energy daily. It can improve one’s metabolic rate and even support weight loss in the long run, which is better than other kinds of fats found in other foods.
  • Increase Overall Fiber Intake. Coconut powder is loaded with various nutrients, including dietary fiber, which can help you maintain normal cholesterol levels. It can also keep your digestive system working properly by absorbing water and assisting food in moving through your digestive tract.
  • Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels. Once again, coconut powder is an excellent source of magnesium, an essential mineral that’s often missing in most diets. Magnesium is a good nutrient that helps the body maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of developing diabetes, which is very helpful in preventing diseases and supporting healthy heart function.

Conclusion

Coconut powder is a great additive loaded with many essential nutrients that can keep the body healthy and strong. Therefore, try this ingredient if you’re looking for an excellent source of fiber, fat, and even protein.

Seeking coconut protein powder? Ceylon Exports & Trading is one of Sri Lanka’s finest wholesale coconut product exporters and suppliers. Order today!

How is Coconut Protein Powder Good for Your Body?

In the last decade or so, there’s been a major shift in how we consume protein on a daily basis. Aside from our daily meals, there’s been a huge boom in the way we supplement our diets with protein, particularly the use of plant-based protein powder supplements. Coconut powder, in particular, has been making a huge splash in the world of protein consumption. It’s now commonly used in protein shakes and other recipes to create tasty and healthy plant-based recipes. But what does it mean to add a plant-based product like coconut protein powder to your diet, and how can it possibly help your health?

Plant-Based vs. Animal-Based Protein

Protein is an essential nutrient for the human body. It is the required building block for our body tissues, hormones, muscles, hair, and nails. Overall, our bodies use protein for everything from building muscle, to repairing tissues and organs, to regulating hormones and the production of neurotransmitters and enzymes.

There are two primary sources of protein: animals and plants. Animal protein is found in meats and dairy products and includes meats such as beef, chicken, fish, and pork. On the other hand, common plant sources of protein include legumes, nuts, seeds, and beans.

The problem with animal-based protein is that it can be high in fat and cholesterol. In fact, some meats and dairy products are very high in fat and cholesterol, making them a less than ideal choice for your diet.

Luckily, plant-based protein is a great substitute for those who aren’t looking to add animal-based protein sources to their diets. Plant-based protein powder has become a popular substitute for milk and other animal products.

What is Coconut Protein Powder?

Coconut Protein Powder is made by processing dried coconut meat. The meat is ground up, dehydrated, and then turned into powder. The end result is a simple, highly accessible source of plant-based protein.

How Many Calories Are In Coconut Protein Powder?

Coconut protein powder is a plant-based source of protein, meaning it’s low in fat and high in plant protein. It has a very low-calorie count at only 120-140 calories per serving. It’s also a good source of medium triglyceride fats, containing approximately 10g per 100g serving. 

What Are the Health Benefits?

Coconut Protein Powder consists of in all the essential amino acids. It contains the the amino acid lysine, which is great for building muscle. Coconuts are also known to contain arginine, which is known for its ability to build muscle and reduce body fat, and leucine, which plays a huge role in helping the body create proteins, enzymes, and hormones.

Coconut protein powder is also a good source of iron and Vitamin B12. Like most plant-based protein powders, coconut protein powder doesn’t contain much carbohydrates.

Coconut Protein Powder and Cooking

Coconut protein powder is a very versatile product, making it a must-have for any plant-based cook. Coconut protein powder is great for making everything from smoothies, protein shakes and other recipes. Coconut protein powder is also great for adding flavor to recipes and cooking. Find out how to make your own healthy protein shakes with coconut protein powder here.

It can be used as a substitute for flour in pancake and waffle recipes. It also works great to thicken and add flavor to soups and other recipes. Coconut protein powder also works great in smoothies and protein shakes. Find out how you can use coconut to create healthy protein shakes here.

Conclusion

Coconut protein powder is a great way to add protein to your diet. It’s a plant-based protein that contains little carbohydrates and fat. It is a sought out ingredient in the dairy free and vegan meat industries. If you’re looking to start adding more plant-based protein to your diet, natural coconut-based products can be a great place to start.

If you want to experience the many health benefits of coconut protein powder, Ceylon Exports and Trading has a range of options available online. From organic coconut sugar to coconut flour, our collection of coconut products is sure to please everyone from the health fanatic to the coconut lover. Shop now and be part of our tree-to-table movement!

Things You Need to Know before Using Coconut Flour

Coconut flour is a great-tasting flour that you can use in most recipes. However, it is not the same as the usual flour you ,and it may be a little more complex to work with. If you are thinking of using coconut flour, there are a few things you need to know first.

What Is Coconut Flour?

Coconut flour is created by taking the flakes of the coconut and grinding them down until they become a fine powder. The flour is then used in cooking and baking in place of other types of flour that are typically used.

Is Coconut Flour Healthy?

Coconut flour is gluten-free, low-carb, and high in fiber. It is perfect for those with specific conditions that prevent them from eating gluten and would need higher fiber in their diet. It is also perfect for those who are trying to limit the carbs they consume.

What Are the Things I Need to Know about Coconut Flour?

As mentioned above, coconut flour is not the same as most other flours. There are certain things that you would need to know about it, which are listed below.

  1. When using coconut flour, it cannot be substituted at a 1:1 ratio for other flour. Most of the time, there is no common formula to use when substituting with coconut flour and it may vary depending on the recipe.
  2. Coconut flour is very thick and works well as a thickening agent. This is great to know as you can use it in soups and sauces.
  3. Because coconut flour is highly absorbent, you may need a smaller amount of coconut flour in most recipes. It will easily absorb any liquids that you are mixing in batters, doughs, etc.
  4. When using coconut flour, be prepared to also use a lot of eggs. It uses a lot more eggs than the standard and traditional flour because coconut flour will rely on eggs as a binding agent.
  5. Aside from the eggs, because of how absorbent coconut flour is, it may require more liquids in general. Depending on what you are cooking, these liquids may vary from lemon juice to apple cider vinegar.
  6. If you are not a fan of the taste of coconut, you may not do so well working with coconut flour. It has a distinct taste that would make it stand out in most recipes. The best way to deal with this is to add another strong and distinct taste like cacao, onion, garlic, etc.
  7. If you are trying to achieve a crispy recipe, then you should not use coconut flour. It absorbs moisture and your food will easily turn soggy.
  8. As mentioned above, coconut flour absorbs a lot of moisture. This means that when you are storing coconut flour, you have to make sure that it is placed in an airtight container. Otherwise, you will get ruined and lumpy coconut flour, which you may be unable to use in the long run.

Conclusion

Coconut flour is a great alternative to traditional flours used in cooking and baking. There are some things you need to know about using coconut flour and it may be a little bit harder than using the ordinary flour you normally use. However, the taste is distinct, and the results are great for specific recipes.

If you are looking for coconut products like organic coconut oil, organic coconut flour, and more, you can purchase them from us at Ceylon Exports & Trading. We are one of the top wholesale coconut exporters and suppliers in Sri Lanka. Shop from our extensive line of organic, coconut-based products and try them out.

Coconut Oil for Weight Loss: How Does It Work?

Coconut is known as a miracle tree for varied reasons. One is how almost all of its parts can be utilized for many things. It is popularly known to be helpful in food, body products, and medical purposes. However, it’s also good for other things, including helping a person lose weight.

Here’s what you should know about coconut oil for weight loss.

How Organic Coconut Oil Helps You Lose Weight

1. Using Coconut Oil as a Cooking Oil

Organic coconut oil has all the good cholesterol. It’s great to use for cooking. It is high in medium chain triglyceride fat, a good type of fat that helps you increase your HDL (good cholesterol) levels and reduces your LDL (bad cholesterol) levels.

At the same time, coconut oil is excellent for giving your body heat. It helps to stimulate your metabolism and improve your thyroid function. Since it doesn’t raise your insulin levels, it is not as likely to make you put on weight.

2. Using Coconut Oil for Baking

Organic coconut oil is excellent for baking. It supplies calories without raising your insulin levels. When used in cooking or baking, the body absorbs it without breaking down and converts it to energy instead of being stored as fat.

Moreover, organic coconut oil is the perfect substitute for margarine or butter. You can use it for cooking fish and chicken or preparing a lovely dessert in place of the frosting on your cake.

Coconut oil has a nice tropical flavor that you’ll love to cook with and eat. If you like the taste of butter or margarine, you will love the taste of organic coconut oil.

3. Adding Coconut Oil to Your Drink

Organic coconut oil is perfectly suited to stir into a glass of hot water or add to your smoothies. It is also great to add to a cup of tea. It is an excellent fat-soluble vitamin source (E and K), which you can use to replace butter in your smoothies, stir into your hot tea, or even eat by the spoonful.

4. Taking Coconut Oil as a Daily Supplement

Coconut oil is excellent for taking on its own or other vitamins and supplements. Healthy fats are essential for good health. They help you absorb vitamins D, A, E, and K. Coconut oil also helps to increase metabolism and increase your body’s ability to burn fat.

Coconut oil is also easy to add to your daily diet. Just put a few tablespoons in your smoothies, hot tea, or some of your cooking. You can also buy it in capsule form as a nutritional supplement.

How Organic Coconut Oil Helps You Feel Great

Coconut oil is a well-known mood enhancer. It provides sustained energy that helps keep you in a good mood and focus. Since it doesn’t affect your blood sugar levels as sugar does, it keeps you from crashing and helps you avoid mood swings.

Organic coconut oil is an anti-inflammatory food. To reduce inflammation in the body and muscle aches and pains, you can use coconut oil as an external application. Simply rub a little on your sore muscles or skin to reduce inflammation and feel better.

Conclusion

Organic coconut oil as a nutritional supplement can help you lose weight and feel great. By adding it to your foods and drinks, you can gain the benefits of coconut oil while still getting the nutrients you need to be healthy. If you think you need extreme fat burning, try to add organic coconut oil to your diet. You will love how it tastes, and your body will love how it feels. 

Get your wholesale organic coconut oil from us at Ceylon Exports & Trading. We are Sri Lanka’s finest wholesale coconut exporter and supplier. We export and supply fresh organic coconut-based products, from cream to flour to oil. Browse our available products now.

UTI Treatment: Can Coconut Oil Actually Be Helpful?

When it comes to UTIs (urinary tract infections), symptoms are generally uncomfortable. This includes pelvic pain, burning with urination and frequent urination. Traditionally, antibiotics are the go-to treatment. In some cases, lifestyle choices may be of some assistance. 

This includes the simple yet very powerful act of drinking more water, as this will flush out bacteria. In order to best ward off infection, consuming cranberry juice is recommended. Another remedy is coconut oil, which is increasingly being considered as an alternative course of action.

Coconut Oil

Although there is no specific research on the use of coconut oil to treat urinary tract infections, there is a growing body of research, specifically on virgin coconut oil, that explores its antimicrobial properties.  There’s a long-chain lipid in coconut oil called lauric acid. It’s a fat that’s associated with antimicrobial elements which actively fight infections, just like a UTI.

In a 2013 study, researchers found that using coconut oil to fight antibiotic-resistant Clostridium difficile diarrhea was more effective than exposing the bacteria to plain coconut oil, although the bacteria did slow down their growth when the cells were exposed to 0.15 to 1.2 percent lipolyzed coconut oil.

It should be noted that the coconut oil used in the study was broken down. That way, the fatty acids could be more readily available to the body. This is a form of coconut oil that has yet to make its way into the mainstream, commercial market. No drugstore or store in general will have it.

Evidence has also come about to suggest coconut oil as an effective response to fungal infections such as yeast infections.

A 2009 study found that coconut oil was active against Candida in a group of Nigerian women. Since then, studies have cited this paper to show that the oil could be used to treat drug-resistant Candida infections, as well as preterm infants and certain types of strep.

That said, coconut oil as a UTI cure doesn’t have science to back it up just yet. For now, anecdotal evidence is all there is, which means the treatment isn’t tried-and-true just yet.

Ways and Methods

Since there is no scientific evidence suggesting that coconut oil is effective for UTIs, there is no preferred or standard method when it comes to treatment, either. Some people have reported that they have used it in various ways, such as applying it topically to the infected area or ingesting pure coconut oil. 

Others say they’ve drunk coconut water, but the concentration of fatty acids to that end would likely be quite low.

Call a Doctor

It should be noted that any suspicions of a UTI should, first and foremost, be consulted with a doctor. Alternative remedies like coconut oil should only be sought after medical attention has been paid. 

Conclusion

Treating UTIs is traditionally done through antibiotics. Coconut oil is quickly becoming popular as a possible alternative remedy. While there is no particular scientific research on coconut oil as UTI treatment, there’s a lot to be said about coconut oil’s antimicrobial properties.

Trying to find organic coconut oil in bulk? Reach out to Ceylon Exports & Trading! We’re one of the finest wholesale coconut supporters and suppliers in Sri Lanka.

Coconut Oil: Better Alternative to Baking Using Butter?

Butter has about 80% milk fat. It is often used in recipes for its taste, appearance, and consistency. When you bake with butter, it can affect the flavor and texture of your baked goods. It also contains 20% water, so it can cause your baked goods to be more crumbly. It can also cause them to brown more quickly.

Why Is Organic Coconut Oil a Better Butter Replacement?

If you are not fond of baking using butter because of its taste and smell, or if you can’t use dairy or animal products, you can use organic coconut oil as a butter replacement. 

Organic coconut oil is a great butter replacement because of its similar texture to butter. Unlike other oils, it does not have any intense flavors, so it won’t affect the taste of your food.

How to Use Coconut Oil as Butter

Liquid Form

If you want to know how to use coconut oil like butter, you should keep in mind that it needs to be melted. So, you can use coconut oil as a butter replacement if you are making a sauce, pancakes, waffles, crepes, muffins, or cookies. Just use the same amount of coconut oil and butter in your recipe, and you will get results similar to those of the recipe using butter.

Solid Form

When using coconut oil in solid form, it can be used in recipes that require butter to be cut into pieces. Its solid form makes your baked goods extra lovely and flaky.

What Kind of Coconut Oil to Use

Virgin Coconut Oil

Coconut oil comes in different forms. It can be in the form of solid or liquid. Virgin oil is said to be the purest form of coconut oil. It has a light coconut aroma, and it is known to have a clean, fresh taste.

Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

Aside from virgin oil, there is another kind of coconut oil known as extra virgin coconut oil. Extra virgin coconut oil is said to be superior to its virgin counterpart. It is made from the first pressing of the coconut fruit and is unrefined.

Expeller-Pressed Coconut Oil

Expeller-pressed oil is extracted from the coconut flesh and produces a high-quality oil. This oil is high in lauric acid and has a high smoke point. It is also a great butter substitute.

Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil

Cold-pressed coconut oil is more expensive than the other varieties of coconut oil. That is because it produces a more limited amount. It is extracted using low heat and retains more of its nutrients. This oil is light yellow and has a strong coconut scent.

Raw Coconut Oil

Raw is considered the newest form of coconut oil on the market. It is made from fresh coconuts and is believed to retain more nutrients. It is said to be the healthiest form of coconut oil because of its high levels of lauric acid.

Conclusion

So, coconut oil works well as a butter replacement in your daily diet or favorite recipes. It has a similar texture to butter and will not alter the flavor of the food it is used in. When choosing coconut oil, make sure that it is organic and cold-pressed. That is to ensure that it will provide optimal nutrition.

Ceylon Experts & Trading is Sri Lanka’s finest wholesale coconut exporter and supplier. We export and supply fresh organic coconut-based products, from cream to flour to oil. If you need organic and pure coconut oil as butter for your recipes, start browsing our products now.

2021 Coconut Industry Update

Sri Lanka’s culture and agriculture production is strongly linked with the coconut tree, as the island has ideal conditions for coconut cultivation year-round. Having been involved in coconut exports since the era of British colonial rule (19th Century), Sri Lanka is now among the top exporters of coconut in the world. Over the years, the Sri Lankan coconut suppliers have evolved the local coconut industry to meet  the global demand by expanding the product range, improving quality, and increasing production volume. 

Sri Lanka’s Coconut Export Performance 

In the last decade, there has been steady growth in the export performance of the coconut industry in Sri Lanka, with a significant increase in export value between 2020 and 2021. The export earnings from coconut products in 2021 was USD836.1 million, which is a 25.80% growth compared to the preceding year. 

Apart from the expansion of the consumer class and the post-Covid pent-up demand for commodities worldwide, the main contributor to the increase in demand for coconut products is the trend for healthy and organic food and beverages. The gradual global recovery from the pandemic is proving a boon for many coconut suppliers.

A majority of coconut kernel products are also gaining a positive reputation as healthy alternatives for commonly consumed products, such as dairy milk. Active Carbon produced from coconut shells is one of the most successful coconut exports due to increasing demand from water, air, and mineral purification manufacturing. Furthermore, new trends in vertical farming and other forms of agriculture have contributed to the increase in demand for coco peat products and coconut coir products. 

Sri Lanka’s bumper harvest of coconuts in 2021 could also have contributed to the increase in coconut exports during the year. 

In 2021, the Sri Lankan Rupee depreciated by 10%, leading to local products becoming significantly more competitive in the international market. This meant that there was increased demand for Sri Lankan coconut products, against competitor coconut producing countries.

Sri Lanka coconut industry exports last 10 years: 2012 - 2021
Source: Export Development Board

As a percentage share of Sri Lanka’s total merchandise exports, coconut exports have shown an increase in contribution in the past four years, with a significant surge recorded from 2019 to 2020, despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, coconut exports accounted for 6.83% of total merchandise exports, a marginal increase from the 6.7% share recorded in 2020. 

Sri Lankan coconut industry as a percentage of total exports: 2012 - 2021
Source: Export Development Board

Snapshot of Global Coconut Producers 

In 2018, Sri Lanka was the fourth largest producer of coconuts in the world, behind Indonesia, the Philippines, and India*. As per data published by the Food and Agriculture Organization in 2020, Brazil surpassed Sri Lanka to reach fourth place, but Sri Lanka remained among the top five coconut producers in the world. 

Top coconut producers in the world
Source: The Food and Agriculture Organization

Portfolio of Coconut Products Exported by Sri Lanka

The key categories of coconut products exported by Sri Lanka are kernel products, shell products and finished fibre products. Kernel products were responsible for 52% of the total export value in 2021, at a value of US dollars 434.57 million. Fibre products made up 29.7% of the total export value with a contribution of US dollars 248.35 million, and shell products made up 18.3% of the total export value with a contribution of US dollars 153.18 million. 

 

2021 composition of Sri Lankan coconut export industry - kernel based, shell based and coir based
Source: Export Development Board

Looking at the export performance of individual product types, the highest year-on-year (2020 to 2021) export value growth was recorded by coconut cream at 44.70%. Desiccated coconut export value increased by 37.60%, and coconut milk powder export value increased by 30.50% within this same period.

Coco Peat, Fibre Pith & Moulded products recorded a growth of 27.84% in export value from 2020 to 2021, while activated carbon grew by 33.89% during the same period.

2019, 2020 and 2021 growth by coconut product - Sri Lanka exports
Source: Export Development Board

Coconut Export Markets 

At present, Sri Lanka’s largest coconut export market is the USA, with more than twice the market value of Germany, which is the second-largest. 

Looking at the export figures from 2021, the value of coconut products exported to the USA amount to US dollars 152.65 million, which is a 24.78% increase from the preceding year, while the value of products exported to Germany amount to US dollars 65.11 million, an 18.48% increase from the preceding year. 

The Dutch and Chinese markets too have grown in export value, recording US dollars 61.69 million and US dollars 51.17 million respectively in 2021. 

Major export markets for Sri Lanka coconut export industry: 2021
Source: Export Development Board

Increase in Demand for Coconut Products Globally 

Transparency Market Research has predicted rapid growth in the coconut industry from 2021 to 2031 based on recent studies on market behaviour. Increasing awareness of the health benefits of edible coconut products and growing demand from developed countries—such as North America and certain European countries are major factors that drive the growth of the industry. 

Increasing global awareness of the benefits of coconut oil, especially in comparison to other oils, is making it a more viable option for consumers, leading to coconut oil growing in popularity as a food ingredient. Furthermore, coconut oil is widely used in cosmetic products, such as hair oil and soap for its natural emollient properties. For example, multinational company Unilever launched its first sustainable beauty brand Love, Beauty and Planet in recent years, and a primary ingredient in the range is coconut oil**

Coconut water, which is high in natural nutrients and electrolytes, is gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers as a natural energy drink. Vita Coco, one of the leading global coconut water brands, conducted its Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2021 on the back of strong demand for coconut water. 

Coconut milk is considered a healthy alternative to dairy milk, gaining immense popularity, especially among the vegan consumer segment. Other edible derivatives such as coconut sugar, chips and cookies are also growing in demand for associated health benefits. 

Looking at the non-edible range of products, the demand for horticulture related products such as coco peat continues to grow due to the global shift towards advanced soil conditioners and vertical farming. The demand for coconut shell based activated carbon is growing as a result of increased usage in water and air filtration, and precious metal extraction. Coconut shell activated carbon is also widely used in the manufacture of supercapacitors because it is considered to be low cost and environmentally friendly***

Sri Lanka’s Coconut Harvest in 2021

Sri Lanka’s coconut industry recorded a harvest of 3,383 million nuts in 2021, which is a 20% increase compared to the harvest of 2,818 million nuts recorded in 2020. 

Coconut harvest 2019, 2020, and 2021 - Sri Lanka
Source: Coconut Research Institute

The coconut tree requires a significant volume of rain for successful growth, and the island had great rainfall in 2021, which very likely contributed to the increase in harvest. Furthermore, Sri Lanka’s Coconut Research Institute encouraged cultivation and coconut land productivity in recent years with newer breeds, better intercropping strategies, better pest control mechanisms, improved fertiliser applications and other measures, which are beginning to bear fruit in terms of increased harvest. 

Sri Lanka’s Coconut Cultivation Board Chairperson, Senior Lecturer Madhavi Herath has stated that the Board’s objective is to increase the annual production of coconut to 3,800 million nuts in three years, and to increase coconut export income to US$ 1 billion****. As part of this initiative, the Board hopes to facilitate the planting of 7.5 million new coconut saplings in 2022, and further promote cultivation in the Central Province of the island. 

New Product Development

Apart from the fact that Sri Lanka manufactures coconut products of the highest quality, the local industry has been able to remain as a front-runner in the global coconut market because it has evolved and adapted to the demands of the international market. 

UHT coconut milk packaged in tetra packs is gaining traction in the global market, and a few local producers have expanded their offering to cater to this demand.

“We are installing both a UHT plant and a tetra line to meet the growing global demand for natural tasting coconut milk and its value added products”, says Jason Samaranayaka of Mathammana Factory. 

The demand for MCT coconut oil is fast-growing, as consumers become more aware of the health benefits of the product. MCT coconut oil is produced by separating the medium-chain triglycerides in coconut oil. The fatty acids in coconut that are more likely to deposit as fat—long-chain triglycerides are largely removed, and only the medium-chain triglycerides are maintained in the end product. Research suggests that MCT oil can contribute to increased energy and appetite control. MCT oil is also increasingly included in ketogenic diets*****

“The MCT Oil demand has been growing quickly in Japan in the last few years due to its health appeal. Currently, there is a shortage of suppliers in the market”, says Chandika Perera of Ceytea International, based in Japan. 

Ceylon Exports & Trading Pvt Ltd is a local coconut manufacturing and exporting company that is working on extracting plant protein concentrates from coconut by-products. 

“We wanted to introduce a ready-to-drink coconut milk fruit flavoured range under our Coco House brand and realised that the alternative dairy market was lacking many options with high plant protein content. Therefore, we have found a novel way to extract proteins from coconut kernel by-products. We believe at commercial scale, this will add tremendous value to the industry, as well as the country”, says Dulara de Alwis, Chief Executive Officer of Ceylon Exports & Trading (Pvt) Ltd.

Challenges Faced by the Industry 

While the industry continues to increase production and contribute to the export income of the country, it has also faced a large number of difficult challenges. 

Currently, one of the most challenging circumstances that the industry—along with the country’s entire agriculture sector is facing—is the loss of crop due to the organic fertiliser policy introduced by the government. 

Industry representatives have spoken to the local media stating, that Sri Lanka’s coconut production will be detrimentally impacted if much needed fertiliser is not made available to coconut suppliers urgently. If the change does not take place in a timely manner, many in the industry believe that the island will have to opt to import coconuts by 2025, instead of being one of the primary exporters of coconut to the world

As a result of this challenge, many coconut growers are looking towards alternative income sources, one of which is selling cultivation land for residential purposes and cutting down coconut trees******

Another burning issue faced by the industry in the current economic context is fuel and power shortages, which have a damaging effect on production capability. Daily power outages interrupt the production process, and although many factories are equipped with generators, the challenge of limited fuel supply in the country means that there is no consistent guarantee that generators can be utilised when needed. This makes the threat of losing business to producers in other countries an unfortunate possibility. 

“In the month of March 2022, we had to operate several days at lower capacity due to extended power cuts and lack of diesel to operate our generators,” says a manufacturer of coconut flour in Sri Lanka who wanted to keep his last name and company name confidential.

The world is currently facing a number of challenges stemming from the Russia-Ukraine war. For example, the production and trade of commodities which are predominantly exported by Russia and Ukraine, such as energy and fertiliser, have been severely disrupted*******. This impact is also felt rather strongly here in Sri Lanka, especially with regard to growing crops.  

In addition to these challenges, exporters also rely on imported packaging material to honour their orders. “The dollar shortage in the country means that imports for re-export purposes are also delayed, since banks either place restrictions on remittances or take longer than usual to source the foreign exchange,” comments Surangi Bullivant from Sula Pvt Ltd, an importer of packaging material for the Sri Lankan coconut oil export industry.

Taking the Industry Forward 

The critical needs of the industry right now are economic stability, access to fuel and energy for production, and fertiliser for farming.  

The following areas need to be addressed in the medium to long term, once the industry is able to stabilise and function more smoothly. 

  • Seedling plantation – Sri Lanka planted 2.28 million seedlings in 2021, which is an increase from the previous year (1.98 million seedlings). However, when you consider the number of seedlings issued about a decade ago (9.73 million in 2012, 6.81million in 2013), it is apparent that the numbers are lower than they ideally should be********. The fact that Sri Lanka had a bumper crop of coconuts in 2021 could be linked to the large number of trees planted in the past ten years.If the harvest is to increase, planting more seedlings each year is imperative. Increasing effectiveness of breeds planted is also important, and as per Sri Lanka’s Coconut Research Institute, the year 2021 saw the introduction of more effective breeds such as CRIC 60, CRIC 65, SL 98, SL 2020, Kapruwana, Kapsetha and Kapsuwaya.
  • Research and development – in terms of coconut cultivation, we need research and development to introduce better breeds, better pest control management, use of more effective fertiliser, better intercropping strategies, and more effective soil improvement techniques. From a manufacturing perspective, we need to invest in product innovation and value addition.
  • Cash transfer incentives – better incentives from those more downstream in the industry (manufacturers, retailers) to those upstream (coconut growers) can drive more equitable and sustained growth.
  • Innovations in processing and new product development – with consumers around the world becoming more aware of the quality of the food they eat, turning towards more plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy, and becoming increasingly more conscious of the source of origin of the food they consume, there is a wonderful opportunity for organic and sustainable coconut product manufacturers to meet global demand.High value categories such as MCT oil and coconut proteins are some of the emerging areas that the local industry needs to expand into.
  • Building global brands – building brands around fair trade and transparency of Sri Lanka’s coconut supply chain is a great opportunity to cater to the increasing global demand for sustainable, ethical food products.Furthermore, local manufacturers can also extend their brands to include products developed from high value coconut ingredients such as water purifiers using activated carbon, dairy free cheese using coconut milk, etc.

“Building another USD1B export industry is a need of the hour in Sri Lanka to support the balance of payment, kick-start economic growth and increase worker incomes. Despite the near term challenges, many of us in the industry believe that Sri Lanka’s coconut industry has what it takes to achieve that mark within the next few years,” states Dulara de Alwis.

——
Footnotes:

*https://www.globaltrademag.com/global-coconut-market-2019-thailands-imports-continue-to-grow-robustly-while-domestic-production-declines/#:~:text=Exports%20by%20Country,Viet%20Nam%20(57K%20tonnes).

**https://cosmeticsbusiness.com/news/article_page/Unilever_pledges_sustainability_promise_with_Love_Beauty_and_Planet/148625

***https://bioresources.cnr.ncsu.edu/resources/coating-activated-carbon-from-coconut-shells-with-co3o4-ceo2-for-high-performance-supercapacitor-applications-an-experimental-study/

****https://www.dailynews.lk/2022/02/07/local/271985/%E2%80%98plan-increase-coconut-related-export-income-us-1-bn%E2%80%99

*****https://www.forbes.com/health/body/what-is-mct-oil/

******https://www.sundaytimes.lk/220410/business-times/coconut-industry-wants-fertiliser-or-face-imminent-collapse-479132.html

*******https://blogs.worldbank.org/developmenttalk/commodity-prices-surge-due-war-ukraine

********Data Source: Coconut Cultivation Board

Why Coconut Sugar Is the Healthier Alternative to Sweeteners

Coconut sugar is an excellent sweetener choice for those looking to keep their blood sugar from spiking after eating. Because it contains fewer simple sugars than white granulated sugar, it does not cause the same high blood sugar spike as traditional table and cane sugars.

Coconut sugar can also be digested more quickly because of its chemical makeup. It’s less refined, and a bit of the natural fructose remains in the crystal structure. That makes it a better choice for people who are sensitive to white sugar or just trying to clean up their diet. Plus, coconut sugar contains some trace minerals that the body needs.

What Is Coconut Sugar Good For?

Coconut sugar is one of the healthiest sweeteners you can use for baking, cooking, and mixing in various drinks. It’s very versatile and goes well with a wide variety of ingredients. Try replacing table sugar with coconut sugar in your iced coffee, or use it to sprinkle on oatmeal or baked goods. You can even make a coconut sugar hot chocolate recipe by replacing the sugar in your favorite recipe with coconut sugar instead.

One of the best things about coconut sugar is its lower glycemic index (GI) of 35, meaning it will not affect blood sugar levels as heavily as regular table sugar and other sugars. 

As an added benefit, people with a sweet tooth trying to lose weight will find that coconut sugar does not trigger a sugar craving as white sugar does. Moreover, coconut sugar has also been known to ease digestion, which is excellent for people with sensitive stomachs.

Benefits of Using Coconut Sugar

Coconut sugar is a versatile, healthy, and natural sweetener that you can use in many recipes, from cookies to desserts to drinks and meals. It’s one of the safest natural sweeteners out there, and you can use it in all sorts of ways to replace table sugar, cane sugar, and other sweeteners.

It’s very versatile and used in various recipes, making it a great choice if you’re trying to clean up your diet and want to replace your white granulated sugar with a healthier alternative. You’ll also find that because this sugar is less refined than other sugars, it’s the best choice for people trying to lose weight.

Using coconut sugar instead of refined sugar will aid in your weight loss goals, make your skin look better, and help your body digest better. However, you can still enjoy your favorite treats without worrying about calories or your blood sugar.

Since it still contains some of the natural fructose found in cane sugar, you don’t have to worry about your body getting too much fructose, which can be harmful to your health.

Conclusion

Coconut sugar is a healthy alternative to regular sugar. Consider switching to organic coconut sugar if you want to live a healthier life. Try to avoid buying refined coconut sugar since it can still be high in natural fructose compared to regular sugar. Organic coconut sugar is the best choice, and if possible, buy it in its raw state.

If you need a good source of organic coconut sugar, you can get some from Ceylon Exports & Trading. We are Sri Lanka’s most exemplary wholesale coconut exporter and supplier. We export and supply fresh organic coconut-based products, from flour to oil to sugar. Browse our products now.

Everything You Have to Know about Desiccated Coconut (Part 2)

In the first part of this series, we gave you a quick yet very impressive overview of what desiccated coconut is and its nutritional benefits. Now, we’ll move on to the benefits one can really get from desiccated coconut. 

The coconut palm tree (Cocos Nucifera) produces coconuts rather than nuts. Coconut, other than being high in sugar, offers more surprising benefits. When you find out about the health benefits of coconut, you’ll want to eat it more often. Read on to learn more.

The Health Advantages of Consuming Desiccated Coconut

1. The Fiber Content

Dietary fiber is made up of plant stuff that the body is unable to process. The fiber reacts with liquids and changes into a gel-like substance as it goes through the stomach and intestines.

This slows the metabolism and allows food to enter the stomach more slowly, improving satiety and keeping you fuller for longer.

Consuming fiber reduces the danger of “visceral” abdominal fat and promotes fat reduction, leading to less belly fat. This also provides diversification of gut bacteria and microbiome diversity that reduces the incidence of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

2. The Iron Content

Coconuts have high iron levels. Iron can be found in cattle, liver, and beans. It is a mineral that aids red blood cell oxygen transport and prevents anemia. To keep organs healthy and functional, red blood cells deliver oxygen from the lungs to them.

People who are on restrictive diets may need to supplement with iron to maintain a healthy iron level and produce enough hemoglobin. When a shortage of iron is present, Anemia develops.

Anemia results from a lack of red blood cells. It causes pale skin, weariness, dizziness, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations and is often detected after a person passes out or falls.

To avoid anemia, eat a well-balanced, iron-rich diet and meet your RDI (Recommended Daily Intake). Iron levels are increased by consuming dry coconut together with meals or beverages.

3. The Prevention of Osteoporosis and Arthritis

Coconut fatty acids promote bone growth and prevent bone deterioration in animal studies. The effect of coconut eating and topical application on the brittle bones of osteoporosis patients has been shown to be so effective that coconut oil is now frequently utilized as a treatment!

Coconut antioxidants make it anti-inflammatory and analgesic. Gallic acid, caffeic acid, salicylic acid, and p-coumaric acid are their principal antioxidants, which destroy free radical cells and prevent them from causing damage to other cells.

Consuming desiccated coconut (or other coconut products) can help relieve arthritis symptoms and prevent flare-ups. It is rich in minerals that are difficult to find.

4. The Manganese and Copper Content

Dried coconut contains manganese and copper, both of which are uncommon in diets.

Manganese is required for bone health (particularly spinal health, but also overall bone health) as well as protein, carbohydrate, and cholesterol metabolism. In conjunction, it also lowers the risk of diabetes since diabetics have lower manganese levels.

Furthermore, because individuals with these disorders have lower brain levels, it can reduce the likelihood of seizures and convulsions.

Copper is another significant mineral that scientists are interested in because of its ability to treat Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob diseases (or CJD, the human form of mad cow disease).

Copper is being studied as a cancer treatment, and preliminary research suggests that it may be as effective as the chemotherapeutic medication cisplatin.

Summary

Coconuts are tropical fruits that have a particular flavor, texture, and nutritional profile. Desiccated coconut is dried and grated coconut flesh that adds flavor, texture, and nutrients to food and drink. As an important dietary supplement, desiccated coconut should be unsweetened and free of artificial ingredients.

Are you looking for an organic coconut supplier? Coco House is here to offer your organic, natural, and ethically-sourced coconut products. Shop our collection today!

Product Enquiry