BANGALORE: Farmers and marketing companies are now resorting to make use of the technology available to extract virgin coconut oil (VCO) as the demand for virgin coconut oil is increasing in the domestic and foreign markets.
A research team from University of St Tomas (UST) of Philippines, unveiled the results of a clinical study of the effects of the extra VCO on cholesterol levels, saying it is beneficial for one’s health and sex life. Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysore and Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Kasaragod, have developed an indigenous technology to extract virgin coconut oil from fresh coconut kernels.
“The market for VCO is huge and is yet to be exploited. It is expected to growing at 30 per cent annually. We are seeing huge demand from western and gulf countries,” said the director of CPCRI George V Thomas.Former Prof of Cardiology of the Middlesex Hospital Medical School, University of London, Dr B M Hegde said, “Virgin Coconut Oil helps to control body weight. It also helps control of blood sugar levels in diabetics. It is an excellent moisture for dry skin.” Coconut Development Board (CDB), under the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, approved extracting VCO.