Refined coconut oil is mainly used in the manufacture of biscuits, chocolates and other confectionery items, ice cream, pharmaceutical products and costly paints. Generally, filtered coconut oil is used for cooking and toiletry purposes. Virgin coconut oil is also made in the country from the milk extracted from raw kernel. This is done on a small scale by the traditional method which is now partially mechanised or on a large scale by adopting wet processing technology. High quality of this oil makes it an ideal massage oil for babies.
Desiccated coconut is used as a substitute to grated raw coconut in various food preparations.
Desiccated coconut is marketed in bulk as well as in small packs. Defatted desiccated coconut is also available in the country. They are available in cans and tetra packs. Spray drying is the best method for the preservation of coconut milk. The product has advantages such as less storage space, bulk packaging possible at low cost and long shelf life.