For decades, we’ve been told to drink around three liters of water each day for proper hydration. But believe it or not, there’s a beverage that’s even better: coconut water. This naturally refreshing liquid found inside coconuts has become a healthy drink recently thanks to its numerous benefits.
In this article, Nasami will show the list of the best coconut water brands in 2024.
What is coconut water?
Coconut water is the clear, nutrient-rich liquid found inside young, green coconuts. It is not to be confused with coconut milk, which is made by grating the coconut meat. When a coconut is enough old, the water inside is gradually replaced by air and coconut meat [1].
Young, tender coconuts contain a little coconut meat, and this thin interior lining is soft and nearly translucent. The coconut is grown up by the coconut water inside.
Coconut water is incredibly refreshing and brings a lot of nutrients. According to the USDA, one cup (100g) of coconut water contains:
- Only 18 calories
- 3.7g carbohydrates
- 2.6g natural sugar
- 0.7g protein
- No cholesterol or fat
- High in potassium (250mg)
- Good source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium and iron
With its hydrating electrolytes and low calorie count, coconut water makes for an extremely healthy beverage. Its natural nutrients provide a part of benefits for the health, which we’ll explore next.
Is coconut water healthy?
Yes, coconut water is very healthy! It can help replenish electrolytes after a tough workout, may decrease the risk of kidney stones, and has been linked to improved heart health. However, you should use it suitably, as too much can lead to weight gain and other issues.
What can I use coconut water for?
In addition to simple hydration, coconut water can be used for a variety of purposes:
- Sports Drink Replacement: With its natural electrolytes like sodium, potassium and magnesium, coconut water makes an excellent hydration beverage before, during or after exercise. Its nutrients can help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating.
- Smoothie Base: Coconut water’s subtle sweetness and nutty flavor makes a great liquid base for smoothies. Mix it with your fresh fruits, vegetables, yogurt or protein powder.
- Plant-Based Milk Alternative: As a dairy-free option, coconut water can substitute regular milk in many recipes like overnight oats, baked goods and savory dishes.
- Cocktail Mixer: The light, tropical taste of coconut water complements many cocktails, especially rum-based drinks. Use it as a mixer or blend into frozen beverages.
- Natural Hangover Cure: The electrolytes in coconut water, combined with its hydrating abilities, can help alleviate symptoms of dehydration associated with hangovers.
- Cooking & Baking: Coconut water can replace other liquids when cooking grains like rice or quinoa. It also works well in baked goods as a binder.
- Beauty & Skincare: Rich in nutrients like amino acids, antioxidants and cytokines, coconut water is used topically and consumed for healthy skin and hair.
Beyond its hydrating capabilities, coconut water contains an abundance of nourishing components like amino acids, glucose, and vital electrolytes. This makes it an extremely versatile beverage.
How to Pick a Good Coconut (Water)?
When so many coconut water brands are available, you would like to buy a whole young fresh coconut to drink. Here are some tips for selecting a good coconut with great tasting water:
- Choose an unpeeled coconut that is still attached to the stem/husk
- Examine the stem – it should be green and fresh looking, not dried out
- Size matters – younger coconuts around 5-7 inches tend to have more water
- Look for a green outer shell color, not fully brown
- Shake it – you should hear liquid sloshing around inside
- Tap it – if you hear a full, sloshing sound the coconut is ripe. A dull thud means it’s immature with less water.
- Avoid overly large coconuts, as the water may taste diluted from hybrid varieties
In general, the younger and greener the coconut, the more refreshing and nutrient-dense the water inside will be. More mature brown coconuts indicate less water and more developed coconut meat.
Buying whole young coconuts lets you drink the coconut water at peak freshness straight from the fruit. Just keep in mind you’ll need a heavy duty cleaver or tool to hack through that tough outer shell! Many prefer the convenience of coconut waters that come pre-packaged in can, bottle, glass, etc.
What are the best coconut water brands?
With so many coconut water varieties available on the market today, it can be overwhelming to research and identify the top quality, best-tasting brands. The packaging, flavors, and varieties seem endless.
Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you. In the next section, we’ll reveal our ranked list of the 10 highest-rated and most popular coconut water brands as of right now.
Whether you prefer your coconut water plain and hydrating or with a touch of natural fruit flavors, there’s something for everyone in this list. We assess factors like nutrient content, ingredient quality, taste, and value to determine the true cream of the crop.
Get ready to discover the coconut water as your new favorite drink! Up next is our definitive ranking of the 10 best coconut waters you need to try in 2024.
10 best rated coconut water 2024
10/ Goya Pure Coconut Water
Goya Pure Coconut Water is a refreshing and healthy beverage made from 100% pure coconut water. It is a good source of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, and it is also low in calories and fat. Goya Pure Coconut Water is a great way to stay hydrated and energized on a hot day, or to enjoy as a healthy snack.
9/ C2O Pure Coconut Water
In the ever-expanding world of coconut waters, C2O stands out for its commitment to delivering a refreshingly pure and simple drinking experience. This brand prides itself on using just two ingredients – coconut water from young, green coconuts and a touch of citric acid to preserve freshness.
The absence of added sugars, flavors, or unnecessary ingredients allows C2O’s coconut water to showcase its clean, natural taste profile. Coconut fans appreciate the subtle sweetness and nutty notes that come through in each sip. The citric acid provides a bright, crisp finish without being overpowering.
Beyond its simplicity, C2O excels in quality control. The coconuts are hand-picked at peak ripeness to ensure optimal nutrient density and flavor in the water inside. The brand also utilizes advanced hydroponic pressure methods to extract every drop before packaging.
8/ Thai Coconut Water
Thai Coconut Water aims to deliver an authentic and premium coconut water experience. This brand prioritizes sourcing from Thailand, known for its rich coconut cultivation, ensuring a truly genuine and flavorful experience.
- Authentic Thai Coconut Flavor: Thai Coconut Water is known for its authentic taste, reflecting the unique flavor profile of coconuts grown in Thailand. This dedication to sourcing creates a truly authentic experience for consumers seeking the essence of Thai coconut water.
- Premium Quality: The brand’s commitment to sourcing and processing methods contributes to a premium quality coconut water experience. They often focus on cold-pressed techniques to preserve the natural flavor and nutrients.
- Limited Availability: Thai Coconut Water may be more challenging to find in all locations due to its focus on specific sourcing regions. However, its premium quality and authentic taste often appeal to discerning consumers.
For those seeking a truly authentic and premium coconut water experience, Thai Coconut is a strong contender. Its focus on traditional sourcing techniques and quality control contributes to a highly valued product. While its limited availability may present a challenge, the exceptional taste and commitment to authenticity make it a worthwhile pursuit for dedicated coconut lovers.
7/ Native Forest, Organic Coconut Water
Native Forest prioritizes sustainability and ethical sourcing practices, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. This brand aims to provide a high-quality coconut water experience while minimizing its impact on the environment.
- Organic Certification: Native Forest holds an organic certification, ensuring that their coconuts are grown using sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. This commitment resonates with consumers seeking ethically-sourced and natural products.
- Sustainably Sourced: The brand places a high value on sourcing coconuts from responsible farms that adhere to ethical labor practices and eco-friendly harvesting methods.
- Recyclable Packaging: Native Forest focuses on utilizing recyclable packaging materials, reducing their environmental footprint and encouraging consumers to engage in responsible disposal practices.
Native Forest’s commitment to sustainability and organic practices makes it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers. The brand’s dedication to ethical production aligns with a growing consumer desire for responsible sourcing. While its flavor profile may not be groundbreaking, its ethical considerations add significant value to the overall product experience.
6/ Vita Coco Coconut Water
Vita Coco holds a prominent position in the coconut water market, known as a pioneer in introducing this tropical beverage to wider audiences. Its simple, original flavor has solidified Vita Coco as a classic choice for consumers seeking a refreshing and pure coconut water experience.
- Clean, Fresh Flavor: Vita Coco emphasizes a natural, clean flavor profile that allows the subtle sweetness of coconut to shine through. It avoids artificial flavors and sweeteners, delivering a pure taste that many find appealing.
- Wide Availability: Its widespread popularity has led to Vita Coco being readily available in supermarkets and convenience stores across the globe, making it a convenient option for consumers.
- Commitment to Sustainability: Vita Coco actively works to promote sustainable sourcing practices. They collaborate with coconut farmers, prioritizing fair trade and responsible harvesting methods to protect the long-term viability of the coconut industry.
Vita Coco’s original flavor remains a favorite among many coconut water enthusiasts. Its commitment to quality and transparency fosters trust in the brand. While some may find the flavor slightly bland compared to other options, its simplicity and wide availability are undeniable advantages.
5/ Zico Natural Coconut Water
Zico has gained popularity for its refreshing taste and practical on-the-go packaging. The brand has successfully blended quality with convenience, making it a popular choice for busy individuals seeking a hydrating and flavorful boost.
- Refreshing Taste: Zico’s coconut water offers a naturally refreshing taste that is instantly quenching, particularly during physical activity or hot weather.
- Convenient Packaging: Zico’s sleek and portable packaging makes it easy to enjoy on the go. Their single-serving bottles are readily available in various sizes, ideal for gym bags, lunchboxes, or travel needs.
- Variety of Flavors: Beyond the original flavor, Zico offers a diverse range of options, including mango and pineapple, appealing to those seeking a touch of variety in their coconut water experience.
Zico’s combination of refreshing taste, convenient packaging, and flavor options makes it a versatile choice. The original flavor provides a clean, natural profile, while the fruit-infused options offer an exciting twist. While some may find the sweetness level slightly higher than other options, Zico’s popularity speaks to its widespread appeal.
4/ Once Upon a Coconut Coconut Water
ONE Coconut Water differentiates itself by offering a range of flavors beyond the traditional. It caters to those seeking a departure from the typical coconut water experience, providing additional options to tantalize taste buds and elevate their hydration routine.
- Variety of Flavors: ONE offers an array of flavors, including pineapple, mango, passionfruit, and others. These additions provide a vibrant and exciting twist to the traditional coconut water experience, appealing to consumers who crave a wider range of choices.
- Electrolyte-Rich: ONE’s coconut water contains a significant amount of electrolytes, beneficial for hydration, particularly after strenuous physical activity or during hot weather.
- Convenient Packaging: ONE’s packaging is similar to other brands, offering single-serving bottles for easy portability and on-the-go consumption.
ONE Coconut Water’s flavor variety sets it apart, making it an exciting option for those seeking to explore new flavors. The inclusion of electrolytes adds to its appeal, particularly for athletes or active individuals seeking a functional beverage. While the added flavors may not appeal to everyone seeking a pure coconut water experience, ONE’s wide range of options caters to a diverse audience.
3/ COCO5, Coconut Water
COCO5 focuses on delivering a natural, low-sugar coconut water experience. The brand prioritizes the purity of the coconut, offering a subtly sweet flavor that allows the natural essence of the fruit to shine through.
- Natural & Low Sugar: COCO5 emphasizes a natural, low-sugar content, making it an appealing choice for individuals seeking to limit their sugar intake without sacrificing taste. Its purity and minimal processing contribute to its distinct profile.
- Subtly Sweet Flavor: COCO5’s coconut water is characterized by a subtle sweetness that many find refreshing. The focus on the natural sweetness of the coconut creates a unique flavor experience that is both delicate and enjoyable.
- High Electrolyte Content: COCO5 boasts a high electrolyte content, beneficial for hydration and replenishing essential minerals after exercise or physical exertion.
COCO5’s low-sugar and natural approach to coconut water aligns with health-conscious trends. The subtle sweetness caters to individuals who prefer a less intense flavor profile. While the natural focus may come at a slightly higher price point, COCO5’s commitment to purity makes it a strong contender for those prioritizing natural ingredients.
2/ Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water
Harmless Harvest has carved a niche for itself by prioritizing organic and sustainable production. This commitment translates into a product that not only provides a delightful taste but also reflects a conscious approach to environmental and ethical considerations.
- Organic Certification: Harmless Harvest boasts an organic certification, ensuring that their coconuts are grown without the use of pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers. This commitment resonates with consumers seeking healthier and more environmentally friendly options.
- Smooth, Slightly Sweet Taste: Harmless Harvest’s coconut water offers a smoother, slightly sweeter taste compared to some others on the market. The balance of sweetness and natural coconut flavor appeals to diverse palates.
- Sustainability Focus: Beyond organic certification, Harmless Harvest is actively involved in sustainable sourcing and packaging. Their packaging prioritizes recycled materials and responsible disposal practices.
Harmless Harvest delivers a high-quality, organic coconut water that caters to those seeking a more conscious product. Its smooth, slightly sweet flavor profile sets it apart while aligning with the brand’s overall values, making it a strong contender for health-conscious consumers.
1/ Nasami
With years of market experience under their belt, Nasami has cemented itself as one of Vietnam’s premier coconut water brands. As a pioneer in supplying 100% pure coconut water straight from the fruit, Nasami is redefining how the beverage is packaged and enjoyed.
Their innovative lineup of canned coconut waters allows consumers to experience the refreshing essence of coconut anytime, anywhere. But Nasami don’t just offer the coconut water original. This forward-thinking company offers an impressive array of coconut water flavors like lychee, guava, strawberry and pineapple – catering to adventurous palates.
Nasami’s portfolio extends far beyond coconut though. The brand has its finger on the pulse of popular beverage trends, also producing fruit juices, coffee drinks and energy offerings. Consumer favorites include their thirst-quenching Banana Juice, tangy Guava Juice, luscious Mango Juice, zesty Orange Juice, antioxidant-rich Mixed Fruit Juice and exotic Passion Fruit Juice.
With a keen eye for innovation and commitment to high-quality ingredients, Nasami is reshaping Vietnam’s beverage landscape one can at a time. As the coconut water craze continues sweeping the nation, this homegrown company is positioning itself as the go-to source for premium, locally-sourced coconut refreshment.
Other Notable Coconut Water Brands
While the ranked list of the 10 most popular coconut water brands grabs headlines, there are another 15 contenders rapidly gaining traction with health-conscious consumers. These emerging players are shaking up the coconut water market with innovative offerings and a fierce commitment to quality.
O Organics, CoAqua, Amy & Brian, Real Coco and Taste Nirvana are just a few of the brands capitalizing on the public’s soaring demand for certified organic, additive-free coconut waters. Retail giants like Kirkland Signature are also muscling into the category with their own organic coconut water line.
For those who prefer a bit of pulp and texture, options like El Mexicano Coconut Water with Pulp and Coco Joy Natural Coconut Water provide that sought-after authentic straight-from-the-fruit experience. Niche brands Copra Pure, Pure Brazilian and Wai Koko are making their mark by touting coconut waters that are never heated or processed.
Even major juice companies like Naked are getting in on the action with their 100% Organic Pure Coconut Water. Nilo and Coconut Flavored Water are building cult followings in the flavored coconut water space. And Simple Truth Organic is rapidly expanding its presence on grocery shelves nationwide.
While they may not own the name recognition of category leaders yet, this diverse set of up-and-comers is injecting competition and innovation into the coconut water space. Consumers have never had so many options to quench their thirst for this replenishing beverage.
There you have it – the definitive ranking of the top coconut water brands to satisfy your hydration needs this year. Meticulously compiled by our team of experts, this comprehensive guide cuts through the marketing noise to spotlight the coconut waters truly deserving of your hard-earned dollars. No longer do you have to aimlessly wander supermarket aisles, overwhelmed by the endless coconut water options. Our authoritative assessments make selecting a premium, great-tasting coconut water a breeze. From category leaders to up-and-coming innovators, we’ve objectively evaluated them all.