Coconut is recognized as one of the most important crops in the Philippines. Producing about 347 million metric tons of fruit annually, the country is among the top producers of coconuts in the world. 69 out of 82 Philippine provinces grow coconuts, with the Davao Region leading at over 50% of the country’s total output.
Because of this, coconut has been included in The Premium 7, a group of Philippine commodity products selected by the Department of Trade and Industry based on their versatility, supply capability, and global appeal. The global demand for Philippine coconuts has led to its total exports contributing up to 3.6% of the country’s gross value added (GVA).
About 70% of the country’s annual coconut output is already allocated for the production and export of coconut products, which include coconut oil, desiccated coconut, and copra meal. All these facts and numbers prove the global appeal of Philippine-made coconut products. They not only help the country’s economy and improve the lives of many “tree of life” farmers, but they also claim space for the Philippines in the global food map.
Here are high-value coconut products and various coconut derivatives that highlight food innovations from the Philippines and offer F&B solutions for the international market
CocoJoy Organic Sparkling Flavored Coconut Water by Agrinurture, Inc. CocoJoy takes coconut water to the next level by combining it with real fruits and undergoing light carbonation. This refreshing sparkling coconut water is made without any artificial preservatives and unnecessary sugars. It is also lactose-, dairy-, and gluten-free. Flavors include black cherry, pomegranate, strawberry, grapefruit, pineapple, and lime. This product is an innovation by Agrinurture, Inc., a company that adopts a farm-to-plate business model while empowering local farmers. It has FDA-LTO, Organic, Kosher, HACCP, HALAL, and ISO certifications. Unsweetened Coconut Cream by Ahya Coco Organic Food Manufacturing Made with real Philippine coconuts, this canned unsweetened coconut cream has a thick consistency and a rich flavor profile. It is ideal for vegans and is certified Halal and Kosher. This cream has no cholesterol and can be used in both cooking and baking. Ahya Coco Organic Food Manufacturing also produces canned coconut milk with various levels of fat content, coconut water, coconut juice, and coconut milk beverages.
Radical Organics Toasted Coconut Chips by Brandexports Philippines Inc. As a champion of MSMEs from the countryside, Brandexports Philippines Inc. represents innovative local brands in the international market. Among its diverse line of products is Radical Organics, a brand of Philippine-made and high-quality toasted coconut chips. It is 100% organic, gluten- and preservative-free, and certified non-GMO. Flavored with coconut sugar and sea salt, the chips can be used as a topping, added to cereals and trail mixes, or consumed directly as a snack.
Lipa Coconut Water by Fruits of Life Inc. Lipa believes that their preservative-free and vitamin-rich coconut water is energy in a can. Its principal company, Fruits of Life Inc., envisioned improving the packaging for coconut water that retains its freshness and quality in a convenient, sanitary, and leak-proof way. They have since successfully produced coconut water in cans, bottles, and tetra packs and has even achieved certifications from HACCP, TUV-SUD, HALAL, and FDA.
Organic Coconut Sap Aminos by Greenlife Coconut Products Philippines Inc. Made out of coconut sap, nectar syrup, and rock salt, coconut aminos are a healthy alternative to other condiments and sauces in the market. This soy- and gluten-free sauce is high in amino acids that help in muscle repair as well as proper brain and nervous system function. It also aids in boosting energy levels and the immune system. This halal and kosher product can be added to stews, tossed in stir-fries, or used in dipping. Its manufacturer, Greenlife Coconut Products Philippines Inc., also produces coconut vinegar, coconut sugar, coconut flour, and other coconut products while helping farmers in Quezon province.
Marca Leon Coconut Oil by Limketkai Manufacturing Corp. Since the 1960s, Limketkai Manufacturing Corp. has been in the business of producing clean, healthy, and pure cooking oils and corn cereals that have already become staples in home and industrial kitchens. One of the top brands of this halal-certified company is Marca Leon Coconut Oil, recognized for using top-grade coconuts, and undergoing the highest standard of food safety manufacturing process. The end product is rich in medium-chain triglycerides including lauric acid which has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. Marca Leon Coconut Oil is free of chemicals, preservatives, cholesterol and transfat.
Quezon’s Best Organic Coconut Sweetener by Pasciolco Agriventures Made out of fresh coconut sap harvested from organic coconut trees, this sweetener is a healthy alternative to sugars in the market. It is produced by collecting the fresh sap and boiling it for hours until the liquid content has evaporated and granules are formed. This sweetener has been recognized as having a low glycemic index by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute. Established in 1993, Pasciolco Agriventures has an extensive line of halal and kosher-certified coconut products including jam, oil, vinegar, and syrup marketed under the Quezon’s Best brand.
Desiccated Coconut by Peter Paul Philippines What Peter Paul offers to the market is variety. Since 1946, the company has been manufacturing desiccated and other specialty coconut products that are exported to major markets in North and South America, Europe, and Asia. With two factories located in the Philippines, Peter Paul has since been recognized as the world's largest integrated coconut processor. Their line of halal-certified desiccated coconut products varies by cut, color, and texture. These include regular desiccated coconut chips, fancy shreds, coconut flakes, coconut macaroon, sweetened desiccated coconut, and toasted desiccated coconut.
Mama Sita’s Coconut Nectar Premium Vinegar by Sandpiper Spices and Condiments Corp. Mama Sita’s has been a household name for generations. They are most popular for pioneering cooking sauces, mixes, and marinades that are sought-after globally by Filipinos and foreigners. They have since gained certifications from FDA-LTO/CPR, HACCP, HALAL, FSSC and GMP and expanded their product line to include artisanal sauces and condiments, just like this all-natural coconut nectar vinegar. Made out of the sap of coconut flowers, this vinegar has been aged for at least one year to achieve its distinct amber color and complex flavors. It can be used as a dipping sauce or in making classic Filipino dishes like adobo and kinilaw.
