FARMER'S NOTEBOOK
Technology for making snowball tender coconut
M.J Prabu
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The husk, shell and testa can be removed without breaking the nut.
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PHOTO CPCRI
READY FOR CONSUMPTION: By using this machine, any unskilled person can make one snowball in five minutes
A TECHNOLOGY for making snowball tender coconut (SBTN) has been developed by the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Kasargod, Kerala.
By using this technology, the husk, shell and testa of the tender coconut can be removed without breaking the nut and made available for consumption. Two persons can simultaneously operate the machine according to Mr. S.J.D. Bosco, senior scientist, CPCRI.
The tender coconut is valued both for its water and its gelatinous kernel. Its milk is composed of water, protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals like potassium, calcium and phosphorus and several vitamins.
Nutritious food
The kernel or solid endosperm of the tender coconut is a nutritious food for convalescing patients. The traditional method of extracting the husk from the tender coconut is difficult and time consuming.
Mature nuts
Tender coconuts of 7-8 months maturity are selected and a groove is drilled into the shell before scooping out the snowball from the shell cups.
The machine is fitted with two blades connected to a 1 HP electric motor. Arrangements are provided for adjusting the depth of cut in the shell.
According to Mr. Bosco, by using this machine, any unskilled person can make one snowball in five minutes, which through regular practice can be brought down to three minutes.
The cost of the machine is valued at Rs.24, 000 and the cost of making one snowball is approximately one rupee.
The snowball is white in colour and ready to serve.
The white ball contains the tender coconut milk, which can be consumed by just inserting a straw through the top of the kernel. Since the coconut milk is not exposed to the atmosphere it retains its sterility. If the snowball is individually packed and refrigerated under hygienic conditions, its shelf life can be prolonged to more than 10 days.
For more information on the new technology readers may contact the Institute at 04994-232893 or e-mail cpcri@yahoo.com.
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