Coconut products gained mainstream attention a few years ago with the rapid rise of coconut water as a natural sports drink. Since then, they have surged in popularity due to their claimed health benefits, appealing taste, versatility, and unique texture. Coconut has established a strong health reputation as an alternative ingredient in a wide range of products, including cosmetics, shampoos, dairy substitutes, packaged soups, and baby food. The Real Coconut aims to emphasize the broader free-from attributes of coconut, particularly highlighting it as a gluten-free, grain-free, and non-GMO option compared to wheat and corn. While the company has not specifically pointed out additional nutritional advantages of coconut, many consumers believe that coconut oil positively affects cholesterol levels, and that coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index than cane sugar. Furthermore, as a plant-based product, coconut resonates with those avoiding gluten and dairy, while also aligning with the rising awareness of healthy fats.
The gluten-free market in North America has particularly propelled the sales of coconut flour, with expected market value reaching $380 million by 2017, according to Future Market Insights. The market 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, as consumers increasingly seek gluten-free baking ingredients. Additionally, the market is likely to expand as food manufacturers recognize coconut flour as an affordable, high-fiber, low-carb alternative to other gluten-free flours for items such as breads, muffins, pancakes, cakes, cookies, and cupcakes. In this context, calcium citrate and magnesium supplements may also gain attention among health-conscious consumers looking to enhance their diets with beneficial nutrients. By incorporating coconut flour into various recipes, individuals can enjoy delicious baked goods while also considering their calcium and magnesium intake. As the demand for gluten-free options continues to rise, the intersection of coconut products and nutritional supplements like calcium citrate and magnesium will likely play a significant role in future food trends.