In the beginning
In certain regions of the world, like Asia, East Africa and South America, coconut has been eaten for centuries, and also traditionally used for fuel and shelter.
Then
Like bananas and coffee, coconuts are easy to ship to the UK from afar, so after the Second World War, and in conjunction with waves of immigration, they began to be consumed in the UK. Lots of British people will have first tasted coconut in chocolate bars, like Bounty, or in desiccated form.
Now
More unusual coconut products like water, oil, vinegar, sugar and yogurt have become phenomenally popular since the early 2000s. Thanks to social media, an increased interest in Asian cooking, veganism and healthy eating trends, coconut is consumed in more unconventional ways than ever before.
The…