Demand goes up for tender coconut to beat heat

With soaring temperature and scorching heat, the demand for tender coconut, fresh fruit juices and buttermilk to quench has increased in the city.

Tender coconut water and fruit juices, including lime soda and sugarcane juice, are the conventional options preferred by the people. In addition, buttermilk is a popular choice among Mangalureans.

The buttermilk is in great demand and is sold instantly, a milk parlour owner in State Bank area said.

Watermelon, pineapple and cucumbers are much-loved preferences consumed as cut fruit pieces to prevent dehydration.

Pushcart vendors and temporary stalls selling tender coconuts, various fruits and juices have sprung up at various locations including beside the highways.

Watermelon, rich in vitamins and minerals, is a good way to beat the heat. Some people like it simply cut into pieces while others sprinkle spicy masala on the cut fruit to enhance the taste.

The demand for tender coconut is expected to increase in the coming days with the increase in temperature and humidity. Tender coconuts are naturally available drink and there is no adulteration in it. Despite the huge demand, the supply is less, a vendor said.

“On an average, I sell more than 150 to 200 tender coconuts per day. The demand is increasing day-by-day. Tender coconut is sold at Rs 30 to Rs 35 per piece. Palm fruit on a hot summer day is more than comforting,” tender coconut seller Ramanna said.

The sale of fruits is also brisk during summer. There is a demand for banana, grapes, mosambi, pineapple and watermelon, a fruit vendor at Central Market said. The price of tender coconut, especially Gendali, has gone up to Rs 40. As people are becoming more health conscious, many depend on tender coconuts, buttermilk and natural fruit.

Though weather is conducive for making copra in the region, the arrival of coconut has decreased due to the increased demand for tender coconut, an oil mill owner said.
The city recorded 36 degree Celsius temperature on April 23. According to Indian Meteorological Department predictions, the temperature is likely to remain between 34 degree Celsius and 36 degree Celsius till April 30