Ghana: Coconut Juice potential
- Posted on Tuesday 9 March 2010 - 18:57Edward Kwame Aklade VoicesofAfrica mobile reporter in Accra, GhanaCoconut remains one of the cheapest and affordable (drupe) fruits in Ghana; it is enjoyed both by the pitiable and the well heeled. The voices of Africa reporter noticed that there have been influx of energy drinks into the country which mostly have chemical preservative which can be harmful to the body.Loading video...Ghanaians enjoy coconut most often but wondered if they are really aware of its nutritional contents. This prompted the reporter to research into the nutritional component of coconut juice as compared to the chemically preserved drinks as well as sample views from the public. The coconut tree widely found in tropical regions has a cylindrical trunk about 45 cm (about 18 inches) in diameter and can grow up to 30 m (100 ft) high, with many rings marking the places of former leaves.
The fruit grow in clusters of 10 to 20 or more nuts; the coconut juice is considered a delicacy, and the central part of the young stem is also succulent and edible. The sap, or toddy, like that of some other palms, is a favorite beverage in tropical countries, either in the natural state or after fermentation, which takes place in a few hours.
Dr.Mensah Emmanuel a food nutritionist confirmed that coconut juice is highly refreshing, it has a high level protein, low in fat ,it also has high fiber as well as contain major nutrients such as vitamins b and c.
In addition it has major mineral contribution such as iron, potassium, phosphorus just like other fruits. The voices of Africa reporter identified Mr.Eli , a “Susu” collector who said he drinks coconut juice daily but was not aware of any nutritional value ‘because of the nature of my job I only drink it to refresh my self’.
Mr.Quansah, a coconut seller said during an interview that he was aware that the coconut juice is highly nutritious.
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