Coconuts are one of the most nutritious and versatile fruits and have been a staple food to many island and Asian countries for centuries. A coconut tree can live as long as 100 hundred years and yield as many as 50 to 100 nuts per year.
A prized fruit of the tropics, coconut uses cut across all ethnic groups, its many parts widely used for food, medicinally, craft, clothing and housing.
Coirfibre comes from the outer husk of the coconut and has many uses in the manufacture of rope, doormats, mattresses, furniture upholstery and horticulture. The fresh coconut that we buy in Australian supermarkets has had the husk removed.
Coprais the meat of the coconut. It has a very light, slightly sweet and nutty delicious flavour and is best eaten fresh or used in recipes. The meat can be sliced or shredded to make a variety of recipes.
Coconut Juiceis the lightly flavoured liquid inside of a coconut, known also as water and can be drunk straight from the coconut.
Coconut Creamis the first pressed liquid from the fresh coconut meat which has been grated, blended and strained.
Coconut Milkis the second or even third pressed liquid from the fresh coconut meat after being grated, blended and strained. This is the diluted version of coconut cream.
Coconut Sugaris from the coconut palm and is produced from the sweet, watery sap that drips from cut flower buds. The sap is collected and boiled until sticky sugar remains. Coconut sugar is available as a paste, a syrup or nectar, a dry block and granules.
Coconut Oilis extracted from copra that has been dried in the sun or kiln. Coconut oil is a cholesterol free saturated fat that is widely used for cooking, health and beauty. The nutritional benefit of this amazing oil is finally being recognised and is the subject of much discussion.
Trunksof old mature trees can be used for lumber and the fronds as thatching material for roofs, matting for floors or walls and for sunshades.
Shellsfrom coconuts are used in craft and can be made into many forms of bowls, cups, candle holders, light shades and various utensils.
Dried Husksare ideal fuel for cooking and campfires.
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