1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
The coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is a tropical plant which belong to the order Arecales and family Arecaceae. It is widely grown in about 90 tropical regions of the world (Peggy, 2007). Every part can be utilized roots, husk, leaves and fruit.
The cavity of the endosperm contains watery fluid called coconut water which begin to form around two months after the natural opening of the inflorescence (Janick and Pull, 2008). It is rich in vitamins, amino acids, minerals and sugar (George, 2001). The coconut water is isotonic in nature. It’s biologically pure with pleasant sweet taste which is of immense health benefits to human (Adams and Bratt, 2000).
Coconut water contains both macro and micro minerals which play vital roles in body metabolism. Examples of these minerals are Mg, Na, K, P, Fe, Zn and Cu (Jean et al., 2009). The fluid has long been used in different parts of the world. During the second world war coconut water was used in place of saline solution during emergency surgeries (Aragao, 2000). It is used in controlling hypertension, intestinal problems and weight reduction. Coconut water is also used for intravenous rehydration and electrolyte replacement in a wide range of situation (Ferraz et al., 2003).
1.2 Aims and Objectives
The aims and objectives of this research work was to analyze some mineral content of coconut water.
1.3 Significance of the Study
Healthier food choices are associated with a higher life expectancy. Thus, participating and adapting to healthy eating habits by consumers such as balanced diet, reduced fatty intake, moderate alcohol consumption and reduced sugars can help improve their well — being. In Nigeria, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH's) Health Report Card 2011these healthy eating practices can reduce the amount of deaths associated to chronic non- communicable ailments since, consuming healthier foods and food products will lessen the development of risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and strokes that may end in death.
Additionally, it is known that coconut water can be used in a variety of ways however consumer knowledge of its countless benefits is uncertain and there are limited studies in relation to the perception and acceptance of functional foods in Nigeria. Thus, there is the need to assess consumer knowledge, perception and acceptance of coconut water as a functional food among consumers in Nigeria.
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