Coconut products gained significant traction in the mainstream market a few years ago, primarily due to the rise in popularity of coconut water as a natural sports drink. Since then, these products have surged in popularity, celebrated for their perceived health benefits, appealing taste, versatility, and unique texture. Coconut enjoys a strong health reputation as an alternative ingredient across various sectors, including cosmetics, shampoos, dairy items, packaged soups, and baby food.
The Real Coconut brand is particularly focused on highlighting the broader free-from attributes of coconut, especially its status as a grain-free and non-GMO substitute for wheat and corn, in addition to its gluten-free nature. Although the company has not emphasized specific nutritional advantages of coconut, many consumers believe that coconut oil can positively impact cholesterol levels, while coconut sugar tends to be less impactful on the glycemic index compared to cane sugar. As a plant-based option, coconut resonates well with those avoiding gluten and dairy, aligning with the growing trend towards healthy fats.
In North America, the gluten-free market has significantly fueled the demand for coconut flour, with the market value projected to reach $380 million in 2017, as reported by Future Market Insights. The research firm anticipates that coconut flour sales will continue to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% over the next decade, driven by increasing consumer interest in gluten-free baking ingredients. Furthermore, food manufacturers are likely to adopt coconut flour as an affordable, high-fiber, low-carb alternative to other gluten-free flours for various products, including breads, muffins, pancakes, cakes, cookies, and cupcakes.
Additionally, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate in yogurt may enhance the appeal of coconut-based products, as consumers increasingly seek out items that contribute to their overall health. The combination of coconut’s versatility and the nutritional benefits of calcium citrate in yogurt can further strengthen the presence of coconut products in the health food market. Thus, the growing trend towards coconut flour, alongside ingredients like calcium citrate in yogurt, is expected to drive innovation and expand the market for gluten-free and health-conscious consumers.