Coconut oil facts for kids

A cracked coconut and a bottle of coconut oil

Coconut oil is a special oil that comes from the inside part of mature coconuts. These coconuts grow on coconut palm trees. People use coconut oil for many different things.

It's a type of edible oil, which means you can eat it! Because it has a lot of natural fats, it doesn't go bad quickly. It can stay fresh for up to six months at room temperature (around 24°C or 75°F).

What is Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil is made from the "meat" or kernel of coconuts. These are the big, round fruits of the coconut palm tree. The oil is clear when it's warm and can look like a white solid when it's cool.

Why is it Called "Copra Oil"?

Sometimes, coconut oil is also called copra oil. This name comes from "copra," which is the dried kernel of the coconut. This dried part is often used to extract the oil.

What Makes Coconut Oil Special?

Coconut oil has a lot of "saturated fat." This type of fat makes the oil very stable. It means the oil doesn't easily mix with oxygen from the air and spoil. This is why it can last a long time without going bad.

How is Coconut Oil Made?

There are a few ways to make coconut oil. The two main types are "virgin coconut oil" and "refined coconut oil."

Virgin Coconut Oil

Virgin coconut oil is made from fresh coconuts. The oil is taken out quickly, often without using high heat or chemicals. This helps the oil keep its natural coconut smell and taste. It's often made from coconut milk or fresh coconut meat.

Refined Coconut Oil

Refined coconut oil is usually made from dried coconut meat, called copra. This process often involves heating, pressing, and sometimes using chemicals to get the oil out. The oil is then cleaned to remove impurities and make it neutral in smell and taste. This type is often used for cooking because it doesn't add a strong coconut flavor to food.

What is Coconut Oil Used For?

Coconut oil is very versatile! People use it in many different ways around the world.

Cooking and Food

• Cooking: It's a popular cooking oil, especially in tropical countries. It can be used for frying, baking, and roasting.
• Baking: It can be a substitute for butter or other oils in recipes.
• Flavor: It adds a unique, slightly sweet coconut flavor to dishes.
• Snacks: It's used in many processed foods like candies, chocolates, and popcorn.

Health and Beauty

• Skin Care: Many people use coconut oil as a natural moisturizer for their skin. It can help keep skin soft and smooth.
• Hair Care: It's also popular for hair treatments. It can help make hair shiny and strong.
• Soap Making: Coconut oil is a common ingredient in making soaps because it creates a good lather.

Images for kids

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  Traditional coconut oil (lana) extraction directly from coconut milk in the Philippines. The process also produces latik (coconut curds), used as a garnishing in Filipino desserts.

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  Traditional way of making coconut oil using an ox-powered mill in Seychelles

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  Coconut oil on a wooden spoon

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  Homemade coconut oil

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  Solidified "coconut fat"

See also

In Spanish: Aceite de coco para niños