Copra and Coconut Oil: From Coconut to Market

What It Is

Copra (dried coconut kernel) and coconut oil are the core products of India's coconut economy; coconut oil is the cooking oil of Kerala and a leading hair oil across India.

How It Is Made

Mature nuts are split and dried into milling copra, which is crushed for oil. Ball copra is dried whole. Virgin coconut oil is made from fresh kernel without high heat.

Uses and Buyers

Households, hair-oil brands, food processors and cosmetic makers.

Quality and Standards

Copra is graded by moisture and oil content; oil by free fatty acids and clarity. Food products must meet FSSAI standards and labelling rules; many are also sold under the AGMARK grading mark, and exporters follow the buying country's rules on residues and contaminants.

Trade and Exports

Kangeyam, Pollachi, Kozhikode and Tiptur are the main markets; copra has an MSP and NAFED buys in glut years.

Where the Raw Material Comes From

Processors buy coconut from the main growing states below. Plants are usually built close to these belts, or close to ports for imported raw material, to keep freight low and quality fresh. Tap a state for its districts, markets, season and buyers.

Makers, Processors and Bodies

• Marico LtdParachuteAboutExplore
• KLF Nirmal Industries Pvt LtdCoconut oilAboutExplore
• KERAFEDKera coconut oilAboutExplore
• Coconut Development BoardKochiAboutExplore

Related: Coconut · All products · All crops

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