Diversification in coconut industry makes economic common sense
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has raised a significant issue when he unveiled a coconut cooking oil manufacturing plant in Savusavu.
While he lauds the project for the excellent health benefits he says it’s time we transform copra production from a plantation-level exercise, tap into more of the diverse uses of coconuts, and turn Fijian coconut growing into the full-fledged industry it’s capable of becoming. He says we must get ambitious about launching new products –– such as coconut water –– which nations like Thailand and Indonesia are shipping around the world. We must position Fiji’s Coconut Industry to capture that massive market potential and the first step is achieving the commercial scale we need to be competitive, he adds.
In some countries you can buy whole coconut water through coin machines just like fizzy drinks.
Why can’t we do the same here for local consumption and exports. That is why we must invest in research and innovation to come up with new ideas and new products.
Apart from coconut cooking oil and coconut water there are other products like:
Virgin coconut oil, which is produced locally in coconut growing areas and is used as moisturiser and ointment
Desiccated Coconut. It is dried shredded coconut flesh used for cooking and baking
Coconut Milk.
Coconut Skimmed Milk . ...
Spray Dried Coconut Milk Powder . ...
Coconut Cream.
Coconut Chips.
The fibre from the husk of coconuts can also be used in ropes, mats, brushes, caulking boats and as stuffing fibre; it is also used extensively in horticulture for making potting compost.
Coconut food products are a great source of Nutrients, Antioxidant Properties, Benefits Against Diabetes, Help Prevent Kidney Stones, Support Heart Health, Reduce Blood Pressure,
When we take all these into consideration, it makes economic sense what Mr Bainimarama says.
We need to protect our coconut plantations and expand them to be able to meet the commercial demand. The indiscriminate cutting of coconut leaves to make sasa brooms must be controlled to allow for coconut trees to grow and bear fruits and make a commercial venture sustainable long term.