Demand is on the rise for ready-to-drink coconuts thanks in part to an increasing number of retailers carrying them. However, that’s not the only factor driving growth. “The natural packaging of ready-to-drink coconuts generates lots of interest as it is the natural coconut and a bamboo straw,” says Marc Holbik of Ecoripe Tropicals. “There is a demand for healthy hydration in natural packaging and our produce departments can be the place to meet this demand.”
The ready-to-drink coconuts are chosen for the quality of their water which means they are harvested young and from varieties with strong drinking qualities. Ecoripe Tropicals supplies its coconuts out of both Costa Rica and Florida year-round and says that the supply currently is similar to last year. Coconuts are also sourced from the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Thailand and Vietnam.
Treating them as perishable
Holbik says though that there is a learning curve in handling the ready-to-drink coconut. “While it looks very shelf stable, to have the best quality and freshness, it is important to treat it as perishable,” he says, noting it provides sell-by dates to help with this. It can also laser etches brand logos, events, or holiday themes on the coconuts--most recently, it sold ready-to-drink coconuts with engraved Lunar New Year designs.
As for pricing, it has been steady for the last year. “Looking ahead, our expectations are for an increase in volume as the temperatures across the country increase. In the summertime, there is always a higher demand for our ready-to-drink coconuts,” says Holbik.
For more information:
Marc Holbik
Ecoripe Tropicals
Tel: +1 (305) 889 1734
marc@ecoripe.com
www.ecoripe.com