Coconut water, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a natural isotonic juice and natural source of essential electrolytes, is also considered a 100% juice by FDA and under the Codex General Standard for Fruit Juices and Nectars. In addition to its health benefits and 100% juice labeling, what makes using coconut water concentrate (CWC) so attractive for formulation work is that the standard reconstituted Brix for CWC is 5°, which means fewer calories.
Working with coconut water affords formulators the opportunity to create lower-calorie, 100% juice blends. “Just blending coconut water 50/50 with juice products like apple and orange could lead to significant drops in the caloric load of 30% or more, and still allows manufacturers to label the product as 100% juice," explains Don Giampetro, vice president sales, R&D, iTi Tropicals, Inc.
Usage levels of coconut water in the finished product range from 10% to upwards of 70% of the total, depending on the desired reduction in caloric load. While coconut water is thin in viscosity and contributes little color and flavor, its high levels of electrolytes can contribute slight salty notes. However, Giampetro says, even using coconut water at levels above 50% in conjunction with other juices doesn’t affect the flavor profile; in fact, he says, “salty notes actually enhance sweetness, and that could be another reason why coconut water is such an easy blend with other juices."
Suitable applications include lower-calorie juice products with high juice content, as well as lower-viscosity juice products. As coconut water is free of particulates, it lends itself to inclusion in juice or drink products for dispensing units and/or needle fillers. Newer possibilities include carbonated beverages made with coconut water instead of water, or iced tea and/or coffee drinks, which could yield finished products that could be upwards of 90% juice.
Formulators working in high-acid facilities should remain mindful that coconut water’s pH value is above 5. Giampetro says the coconut water can be acidified to help alleviate that situation. Further, coconut water is considered an allergen and should be labeled as such when used in any beverage or food formulation.
iTi Tropicals, Inc.
30 Gordon Avenue
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Phone: 609/987-0550
Fax: 609/987-0252
Website: ititropicals.com
