Fatty acid profile of coconut oil in relation to nut maturity and season in selected cultivars/hybrids

Purpose - The objective of this work is to study the fatty acid profile of coconut oil in the kernel in relation to maturity of the nut and season of fertilization in five selected varieties of coconut. Designtmethodology/approach - The coconut oil from the popular cultivars/hybrids were studied in post-monsoon, pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons at 7, 8, 10 and 12 months after fertilization. Findings - Nuts that fertilized in the post monsoon season were found to have higher oil contents. Of the five varieties, COD x WCT had lesser amounts of caprylic, capric and lauric acids and greater amounts of the long chain fatty acids. Though significant differences were observed in fatty acid concentrations in nuts differing in their variety and season of tagging, the trend remained the same. Originality/value - The study helps to ensure the safety of the usage of coconut oil as dietary oil, from the nature of fatty acids present.