Coconut Inflorescence Sap

Coconut inflorescence sap (neera) is the sweet, oysterwhite coloured sap collected from the immature coconut spadix (inflorescence). It is a natural health drink and a rich source of sugars, proteins, minerals, antioxidants and vitamins. Besides being used as a nutritional drink, it is used as raw material for value-added products like natural coconut sugar, palm syrup, jaggery and honey, which have high potential in domestic and international markets. Frequent price fluctuations of major products like nut, copra, oil, etc., call for product diversification in coconut farming. Hence neera/coconut inflorescence sap provides a huge opportunity for higher income to the coconut farmers, making coconut farming a profitable venture. In neera tapping, many factors have to be considered to obtain economic benefit. This review covers some of the factors influencing the neera quantity and quality. This information will help researchers plan research strategies to improve the sap characteristics for commercial utilization.