Government Chemist and IGFS (QUB) collaborate on coconut water authenticity
The GC team and the Institute for Global Food Security at Queens University Belfast have collaborated on a review of methods and issues related to determining the authenticity of coconut water
Coconut water is a popular drink. The best-tasting water is from young coconuts but it is difficult to preserve its delicate flavor and properties in a long supply chain. Mature coconut harvest predominates for a variety of purposes which are not directly related to coconut water production. How can you be assured that you are buying the genuine article, whether as a consumer or as a business?
That was the question posed by Julia Glotz in an article in ‘The Grocer’ in 2016 with input from the Government Chemist. It prompted a young student, Emma-Lee Johnston, to take up the challenge, supervised by IGFS emeritus Professor Duncan Thorburn Burns and Dr Michael Walker in the Government Chemist team.
The outcome has just been published: Authenticity and the Potability of Coconut Water- a critical review
The findings are open access so you can read the full paper but the take away messages are:
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Coconut water is prized for its delicate flavour when fresh
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Dramatic increases in global demand may jeopardise its authenticity
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Its typical composition and methods to verify its integrity are suggested and a weight of evidence approach should be taken to assess coconut water authenticity
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In particular sight of local standards and the European Fruit Juice Association AIJN acceptability criteria for coconut water is essential for an opinion on a sample of coconut water.
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Experimental exploration of the use of the carbon isotope ratio of extracted protein as an internal standard for carbon SIRMS should be undertaken.
Michael Walker said:
It is relatively unusual for a final year undergraduate project to result in a peer reviewed paper. This shows how diligent Emma-Lee was and the benefits of the IGFS - Government Chemist joint supervision. The Government Chemist is now in a much stronger position to assess coconut water authenticity.
If you have a question or need advice related to food authenticity contact: