Coconut sap syrup is a natural sweetener obtained by boiling the pure and fresh coconut sap under moderate to very low heat until it becomes sticky . It has a rich and sweet taste with a distinct coconut fruity flavor. Coconut sap syrup is rich in nutrients and has a low Glycemic Index (GI) of 39 ± 4.
- Coconut sap – also known as “tuba” or toddy; the liquid oozing out from the tapped unopened inflorescence of the coconut palm (PNS/BAFPS 76:2010).
- Glycemic index (GI) – a physiological classification of dietary carbohydrates based on how they raise the blood sugar levels. Low GI foods (= 55) are more slowly absorbed and produce a less pronounced rise in blood sugar.
- pH – a measure of the acidity and basicity of an aqueous solution.
- Total Soluble Solids (TSS) – the sum of the solids present in a solution.
- Brix – the weight-to-weight ratio of the sugar content of a solution.
How to make Coconut Sap Syrup:
Processing of Coconut Sap Syrup
1. Tap the coconut inflorescence and collect the sap/toddy.
2. Filter the sap.
3. Check for pH (5.5-5.9) and total soluble solids (15-20 °Brix).
4. Boil the coconut sap at 100oC. Concentrate and evaporate until thick at 75-78oBrix or until it forms into soft ball when dropped in cold/tap water.
5. Pack hot in sterilized bottles or plastic containers. Seal tightly and invert the bottle, then, let it cool.
6. Store in cool, dry place, not more than 30oC and away from sunlight.
Shelf-life: 6 months if properly processed and stored.
Uses of Coco Sap Syrup
Coconut sap syrup can be used as an ingredient or a low-calorie sweetener in:
- Pancake, waffle, hot bread, French toast spread
- Soft and hard candies
- Beverages (e.g., fruit juice, shakes, tea, coffee)
- Fruits, snacks, pastries, jams, desserts (e.g., biscuits, donuts, ice cream, hot cereal, corn fritters, baked apples, crème brulee, custards, muffins)
- Salad dressings, appetizer sauces, soups and cocktails
Health Benefits of Coco Sap Syrup
Coconut sap syrup food products have the following benefits:
- Rich in amino acids, specifically glutamic acid, which plays a vital role in the normal function of prostate gland (male reproductive system); used by the body to build protein.
- Good source of carbohydrates, B-vitamins, and minerals such as calcium, sodium and iron, for healthy body.
- Contain substantial amount of calories for energy.
- Has a low Glycemic Index of 39 which makes it good for persons with diabetes when used in moderation.
For more details, contact:
FOOD PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
Albay Research Center
Research Development Branch
Philippine Coconut Authority
Banao, Guinobatan, Albay
Mobile: (0917)558-1447
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
or
FOOD PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
Research and Development Branch
Philippine Coconut Authority
FPDD Plant, PCA Compound., Elliptical Road
Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
Tel. No.: (02) 8928-4501 to 09
Fax No.: (02) 8926-7631
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.pca.gov.ph
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Source: www.pca.gov.ph