Evaluations on the physical, chemical and nutritional analyses of coconuthaustorium

Coconut haustorium is a part of the embryo embedded in the endosperm nearer to the coconut germination pores. This young sponge part will grow to form a cotyledon structure known as a haustorium. The coconut haustorium will grow and finally fill the entire coconut water cavity within 20-24 weeks after germination. A matured coconut haustorium contains a high moisture content range between 79.99-86.40% and it is rich in various nutrients and minerals. The aims of the study were to investigate the nutritional and physical properties of the local coconut haustorium. The carbohydrate, crude fat, crude protein and ash contents were recorded at 9.34-15.58%, 0.62-2.15%, 1.34-1.84% and 1.61-2.30% respectively. Coconut haustorium also has the potential to be developed as a health supplement product. In relation to that, a physical-chemical and nutritional quality study of coconut haustorium was carried out to develop MARDI coconut haustorium products. Coconut haustorium is high in lysine and other essential amino acids. Thus, fresh haustorium can be used as a high-value-added superfood ingredient for health and wellness supplements and focusing on increasing food intake (appetite), especially as a children's supplement.