"It's only for the last five years that the demand for tender coconut has risen sharply
May 12, 2014, 03.06AM IST
LUCKNOW
The summer demand and increased transportation expenses have made prices of tender coconut water shoot up by Rs 10-15. Tender coconut is currently priced at Rs 30-40 per piece as compared to the same period last year when it cost Rs 20-25 apiece.
Sellers say the main reason behind the steep rise is higher wholesale prices due to supply shortage and hike in diesel prices. "Tender coconut supplied here comes all the way from Kolkata and as traders have increased their cut, we have no option but to sell it at a higher price," said Anil Prakash, a roadside vendor in Gomtinagar. "We're left with very little margin because now we get tender coconut at Rs 18 or 20 a piece as compared to Rs 15 last year," said a wholesaler in Kaiserbagh, Deepak Kumar Gupta.
"It's only for the last five years that the demand for tender coconut has risen sharply in the city and it is being consumed round the year as opposed to only monsoons earlier," said Shiv, owner of a coconut water stall in Kaiserbagh Mandi.
Dr Surabhi Jain, a city-based nutritionist said, "Coconut water is not only the most naturally refreshing drink to beat the heat but also highly nutritious. It enhances immunity, balances electrolytes in the body and is a good remedy for skin-related problems."
2013 Coconut water price was Rs 20 & 25
At present the same size of tender coconut is available at Rs 30& 40.
Nutritional value- Fat free/ zero calories/ zero cholesterol, high amount of minerals.
Health benefits- Prevents dehydration, improves digestive system and cures all skin problems