Coconut milk is coconut juice produced from the extraction of old coconut meat by squeezing it. The squeezed coconut meat produces white milk, like the color of the coconut meat. At first glance, this liquid milk has a color and texture similar to fresh cow’s milk. However, can coconut milk be drunk directly like fresh cow’s milk? The following article will discuss how safe coconut milk is for direct consumption.
Coconut Milk Content
This coconut meat juice does have a color that is very similar to fresh cow’s milk. However, coconut milk has a different nutritional content than cow’s milk. Coconut milk has a very high vegetable fat content, the fat in coconut milk is too much if absorbed by the body. If the body absorbs too much fat, the body will respond with various symptoms such as diarrhea and stomach cramps. This can cause the body to experience dehydration and serious digestive problems. So coconut milk is not recommended to be drunk directly as a substitute for cow’s milk.
Texture and Taste
Coconut milk is usually produced from old coconut meat with a high oil content. This oil makes the texture smoother but heavier than mineral water or milk. The taste and aroma of coconut milk that is not heated or processed will be slightly strong but less delicious. This is different from coconut milk which has been heated until the coconut oil evaporates, so the taste and aroma are more delicious. Some people certainly will not be comfortable consuming coconut milk directly because the aroma is less familiar.
Use of Coconut Milk
In terms of its use, coconut milk cannot be consumed directly considering that coconut milk needs to be diluted before use. This is because coconut milk has a strong natural aroma, so it will affect the aroma and texture of food and drinks. Coconut milk that has been heated will also give off a savory taste and aroma that can enhance the taste and aroma of food and drinks. Therefore, coconut milk will be more delicious if enjoyed when it has become a complementary seasoning for food and drinks.
Conclusion: can coconut milk be drunk directly?
Maybe consuming coconut milk in small amounts will not affect a person’s health and appetite. However, consuming coconut milk directly can increase the potential for discomfort in the body after consuming it. It is better to consume coconut milk after it has been cooked or has been diluted to get the experience of drinking coconut milk without risk.