# Impact of Coconut Copra Byproducts Incorporation on Granola Quality Characteristics  
[PERSON]  
1 COVACHM MZE (EA 3592), UFR SEN, Campus de Fouillole, Universite des Antilles,  
F-97110 Pointe-s-Pitre, France; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (A.V.); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (L.V.); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (G.A.)  
[PERSON]  
2 Department of Biotechnology and Food Analysis, Wroclaw University of Economics and Business,  
Komandska 118/120, 53-345 Wroclaw, Poland; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (A.W.-B.); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (R.O.)  
[PERSON]  
1 COVACHM MZE (EA 3592), UFR SEN, Campus de Fouillole, Universite des Antilles,  
F-97110 Pointe-s-Pitre, France; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (A.V.); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (L.V.); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (G.A.)  
[PERSON]  
2 Department of Biotechnology and Food Analysis, Wroclaw University of Economics and Business,  
Komandska 118/120, 53-345 Wroclaw, Poland; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (A.W.-B.); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (R.O.)  
Footnote 2: email: {j.j.  
The French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD) reports about 12 million hectares of coconut trees worldwide, producing 3 million tons of oil yearly [3]. However, intensive coconut cultivation generates significant environmental problems, particularly in waste management and deforestation [4]. In 2020, global coconut production reached 64 million tons [5], with waste management becoming critical as 60% of coconut waste is not efficiently used, according to the FAO [6]. Coconut water sales have increased recently, with studies showing its nutritional qualities [7]. While its commercialization grows, especially in African countries and the Caribbean islands, roadside sales remain common, leading to coconut copra becoming a waste byproduct after water consumption.  
Coconut copra offers numerous nutritional properties and health benefits. Rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), these fats are quickly metabolized for energy and are known for improving metabolism, weight management, and brain health [8]. However, excessive MCT intake may cause gastrointestinal issues and potentially increase cholesterol levels, necessitating moderate consumption within a balanced diet. Copra contains antioxidants and minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron, supporting muscle function, heart health, and stress reduction [9]. Studies demonstrate coconut's health-promoting properties, including antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and anti-obesity effects [10; 11; 12].  
In agri-food, coconuts are ideal for healthy products that meet growing consumer demand. Converting coconut into food products presents economic and environmental opportunities using an underused resource [13]. Research has shown the benefits of coconut flour in improving food product taste and texture [14; 15; 16]. Similar studies in the West Indies with seaside almond Terminalia catappa kernel flour demonstrated its potential as a functional ingredient for gluten-free bakery applications [17].  
This study investigated coconut copra valorization through granola formulations, focusing on this underutilized byproduct of coconut water production in the Caribbean region. The research followed a systematic approach: first characterizing the functional and bioactive properties of coconut copra powder and its blends with banana flour, then applying this knowledge to develop enhanced granola products. The experiment included analyses of techno-functional characteristics, rheological properties, and bioactive profiling. Different coconut copra-to-banana flour ratios were tested to determine optimal blends for granola production. Storage stability was examined through color and texture analysis, alongside preliminary consumer acceptance evaluation, to establish commercial viability. The study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of transforming coconut copra from a waste byproduct into a valuable functional ingredient for granola applications, contributing to sustainable food production in the Caribbean region.