The coconut is one of the most versatile tropical fruits, often called the “tree of life” because nearly every part of it can be used for food, drink, or industry. The fruit consists of a hard shell enclosing white edible flesh (endosperm) and clear coconut water, both rich in nutrients and flavor. The dried kernel of the coconut, known as copra, is processed to extract coconut oil — a key ingredient in food production, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Fresh coconuts are valued for their refreshing water and tender flesh, while mature coconuts are processed for grated coconut, coconut milk, desiccated coconut, and oil. Copra production involves drying the coconut flesh, traditionally under the sun or using controlled heat dryers, resulting in a product with reduced moisture and high oil yield.