Coconut water facts for kids
Coconut water is the clear liquid inside coconuts (which are fruits of the coconut palm). In early development, it serves as a suspension for the endosperm of the coconut during the nuclear phase of development. As growth continues, the endosperm matures into its cellular phase and deposits into the rind of the coconut pulp.
Harvesting
Fresh coconuts are typically harvested from the tree while they are green. A hole may be bored into the coconut to provide access to the liquid and meat. Coconuts which have fallen to the ground are susceptible to rot and damage from insects or animals.
Human consumption
Coconut water has long been a popular drink in the tropical countries where it is available fresh, canned, or bottled.
Coconuts for drinking are served fresh, chilled or packaged in many places. They are often sold by street vendors who cut them open with machetes or similar implements in front of customers. Processed coconut water for retail can be found in ordinary cans, Tetra Paks, or plastic bottles, sometimes with coconut pulp or coconut jelly included.
Coconut water can be fermented to produce coconut vinegar. It is also used to make nata de coco, a jelly-like food.
Images for kids
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Coconut-water vendor on donkey cart, c. 1950. Port of Spain.
See also
In Spanish: Agua de coco para niños
