Coconut products gained mainstream attention a few years ago with the swift rise in popularity of coconut water as a natural sports drink. Since then, they have surged in popularity due to their claimed health benefits, appealing flavor, versatility, and unique texture. Coconut enjoys a strong health reputation, being utilized in a variety of products ranging from cosmetics and shampoos to dairy alternatives, packaged soups, and baby food. The Real Coconut brand aims to emphasize the broader free-from qualities of coconut, particularly as a grain-free and non-GMO substitute for wheat and corn, alongside its gluten-free status. While the company hasn’t specifically highlighted additional nutritional advantages of coconut, many consumers are persuaded by the belief that coconut oil positively influences cholesterol levels and that coconut sugar has a more moderate impact on the glycemic index compared to cane sugar. Additionally, as a plant-based option, coconut is appealing to those avoiding gluten and dairy, while also aligning with the increasing awareness surrounding healthy fats.
In North America, it is the gluten-free market that has significantly boosted sales of coconut flour, which is projected to reach a market value of $380 million in 2017, according to Future Market Insights. The market researcher anticipates that coconut flour sales will continue to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% over the next decade as consumers increasingly seek gluten-free baking ingredients. Furthermore, the market is likely to expand as more food manufacturers recognize coconut flour as an economical, high-fiber, low-carb alternative to other gluten-free flours for various products such as bread, muffins, pancakes, cakes, cookies, and cupcakes. As the demand for health-oriented ingredients rises, the combination of coconut flour with supplements like tab calcium citrate malate can further enhance nutritional offerings, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The incorporation of tab calcium citrate malate can provide added benefits, making coconut flour an even more attractive option in the evolving landscape of gluten-free and health-focused food products.