Australian Supermarket Coconut Water Taste Test: Fresh Coconut Triumphs in Blind Review
Overcoming an irrational fear of coconut products, journalist Nicholas Jordan embarked on a comprehensive taste test of bottled coconut waters available in Australian supermarkets. With a panel of seven friends conducting a blind review, the experiment aimed to determine whether packaged options could rival the fresh experience.
From Fear to Flavour: A Personal Journey
Jordan admits to a longstanding aversion to coconut-based health products, rooted in past experiences of soapy tastes. This scepticism led him to primarily consume coconut water directly from fresh coconuts via a straw. However, curiosity drove him to explore the burgeoning market of bottled varieties, questioning if they could surpass the natural original.
The test included 18 unflavoured coconut waters, each listing only coconut water in their ingredients. To ensure objectivity, all reviewers except Jordan tasted the products blind, scoring them on aroma and flavour. Unbeknownst to the panel, a fresh coconut was secretly included among the samples.
The Surprising Results: Nature's Superiority Confirmed
As expected, the fresh coconut emerged as the highest-scoring item, with nature hailed as Earth's greatest chef. This outcome highlighted that many bottled products either failed to mimic the authentic taste or presented inferior versions. Notably, products using Filipino coconuts were criticised for being low-sugar and low-taste, emitting a sweetened yoghurt-like aroma. In contrast, Thai coconut products were praised for their sweetness, aromatic quality, and good value.
Jordan's fears proved unfounded; none of the coconut waters tasted soapy, and even the worst entries were deemed drinkable, albeit sometimes boring or peculiar.
Top Picks and Value Champions
UFC Refresh Coconut Water scored 7/10, earning praise for its great balance of sweetness and natural flavour. Reviewers described it as very easy drinking, with one noting it delivered exactly what you want from coconut water, albeit with a slightly yellow tinge. Priced at $3.79 for 1L, it represents a reliable choice for everyday hydration.
Cocolicious Coconut Water from Aldi took the title for best value, scoring 6.5/10. At $2.59 for 1L, it beat many competitors more than twice its price. Despite a faint honey-like aroma that led some to question its authenticity, reviewers appreciated its sweetness and affordability, making it a victory for frugal shoppers.
Other Notable Entries
Coles 100% Pure Coconut Water scored 6/10, offering an unsurprising and easy-access option at a good price. However, it was deemed boring compared to Aldi's alternative.
Kurious 100% Natural Coconut Water also scored 6.5/10, standing out for its high natural sugar content and intense, dessert-like flavour. Reviewers likened it to toasted or pandan notes, with one exclaiming it smells like an island holiday.
H2 Coco Young Green Coconut Water and Raw C Pure Natural Coconut Water both scored 6/10, with the former noted for its muted sweetness and the latter for its low-sugar, health-focused profile that divided opinions.
Cocobella Straight Up Coconut Water and Woolworths 100% Pure Coconut Water scored 4.5/10 each, with the former criticised for artificial-tasting luxury and the latter for vegetal, low-sweetness flavours reminiscent of yoghurt water.
CocoCoast Natural Coconut Water scored 4/10, proving highly divisive with scores ranging from 1 to 7.5. It was described as comically fake by some, appealing only to those who enjoy coconut candy regardless of authenticity.
Key Takeaways for Consumers
This taste test underscores that while bottled coconut waters can be palatable and convenient, fresh coconut remains the gold standard. For those seeking value, Aldi's Cocolicious offers a budget-friendly option without compromising too much on taste. When shopping, look for products made from Thai coconuts to ensure better flavour and aroma.
Ultimately, the experiment reassures that fears of soapy tastes are largely unwarranted, with most products providing a decent, if varied, drinking experience. Whether you prefer the simplicity of fresh coconut or the practicality of bottled versions, there's something for every palate in Australia's supermarket aisles.
