PRODUCT ROUNDUP
Coconut Hydration
BY NICOLE POTENZA DENIS
D
riven by consumers' desire for a refreshing drink that's natural and healthy,
coconut water is a frontrunner for hip
hydration. Its naturally occurring minerals,
electrolytes and high levels of potassium
and magnesium have been known to fight
fatigue and help with muscle recovery, making it a popular go-to beverage after an
intense workout, a night of too much drinking (think hangover cure) or just for its
tastiness. Its low-calorie content (most 8to 16-ounce servings have between
35 and 100 calories) is also a draw.
The market for coconut-water beverages
grew 100 percent in 2011, according to a
New Nutrition Business report, taking the
combined retail sales value of the U.S. and
European markets to more than $265 million, an achievement for a premium-priced
category. Specialty producers are building
on its health-driven success with products
that combine other beneficial ingredients like
whole grains, immunity-boosting antioxidants
and natural prebiotic inulin. Here are some
specialty coconut beverages on the market.
PHOTOS: MARK FERRI; FOOD STYLING: LESLIE ORLANDINI; PROPS STYLING: FRAN MATALON-DEGNI
50 ❘ SPECIALTY FOOD MAGAZINE ❘ specialtyfood.com