The obsession that began years ago with coconut water as a healthier substitute for sports drinks has evolved into a comprehensive food trend. Consumers—if not all nutritionists—perceive coconut products as having a significant health halo. These products cater to gluten- and dairy-free consumers while capitalizing on the growing interest in healthy fats. However, is coconut truly beneficial for your health? The American Heart Association suggests otherwise. They recommend against the consumption of coconut oil due to its high saturated fat content, which is linked to elevated LDL cholesterol levels. In fact, coconut oil contains more saturated fat than butter, palm oil, or even lard.
Proponents of coconut often reference two studies that associate medium-chain fatty acids with fat burning. Yet, coconut oil comprises only 14% medium-chain fatty acids, and the researcher behind those studies has criticized the coconut industry for misrepresenting her findings. Nevertheless, this skepticism hasn’t deterred consumers from eagerly purchasing the numerous new coconut consumer packaged goods (CPGs) available on store shelves. A striking 72% of Americans regard coconut as a health food, which in turn lends a healthy halo of approval to products featuring this ingredient.
Coconut water remains a dominant player in the plant-based water market, with sales projected to double from $2.7 billion in 2016 to $5.4 billion by 2020. Coconut has now made its way into a myriad of products, particularly thriving in the dairy aisle. Both Dannon and Chobani have introduced coconut-flavored yogurt, and various coconut milk options continue to gain popularity. Nestle has incorporated a coconut milk variant into its well-known line of Coffee-mate creamers, and there are two flavors of Outshine frozen fruit bars that include coconut. Additionally, General Mills is infusing coconut into a range of consumer packaged goods, including LARABAR bites and Nature Valley Biscuits with Coconut Butter.
Beyond the culinary realm, coconut is also flourishing as an ingredient in beauty products. It can be found in everything from shampoos to face masks and lip balms. Coconut oil is marketed as a lotion alternative to apply after a shower, where its high saturated fat content becomes less of a concern. In this context, consumers might also consider dietary supplements such as calcium citrate malate, cholecalciferol, and folic acid tablets, which can complement a healthy lifestyle alongside coconut products. As the coconut trend continues to grow, it remains important for consumers to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of incorporating this ingredient into their diets.