The rising popularity of coconut oil can largely be traced back to direct-to-consumer sales of the product itself. Its use extends to various items, from potato chips fried in coconut oil to coconut-based whipped toppings for coffee. The advice from the American Heart Association (AHA) doesn’t imply that companies must cease using coconut oil. Similar to how real butter can enhance the appeal of certain products, coconut oil enjoys a reputation for being natural and flavorful. As highlighted in a NYMag article, saturated fat can be acceptable in moderation, even when derived from coconut oil. The AHA recommends keeping saturated fats to about 5% to 6% of total daily calories, which equates to approximately 13 grams for someone consuming 2,000 calories a day. However, if the suggestion to limit coconut oil resonates with health-conscious consumers, it may benefit other oils. Awareness of healthier oils is rising, with olive oil, in particular, experiencing a significant surge in interest over recent years. Since 1990, American consumption of olive oil has increased by 250%.
In addition to health considerations, the growing interest in coconut products—like coconut oil and coconut sugar—has impacted ingredient costs. Last year, coconut oil prices surged by 20% in just one month as suppliers from India, Indonesia, and the Philippines struggled to meet demand. From October 2016 to January of this year, prices increased by another 27%. This isn’t the first occasion that the health attributes of coconut have been scrutinized. Earlier this year, The Wall Street Journal cautioned that the health benefits associated with unprocessed coconut do not necessarily apply to all coconut products, as the oil remains high in calories and saturated fat.
In the context of health, incorporating supplements such as calcium citrate, vitamin D3, zinc sulfate, and magnesium sulfate can support a balanced diet, particularly for those monitoring their saturated fat intake. Thus, while coconut oil remains popular, the rise of alternative healthy oils and nutrient-rich supplements may offer consumers more options for maintaining their health.