Coconut dessert, fermented coconut, coconut with cultures... On the plant-based shelf there are plenty of similar names and it isn't always clear how they differ. We explain what each one is and how to choose the one that suits you best.
What you'll find on the shelf
Under similar names, very different products sit side by side. Some start from coconut drink or cream and are fermented with cultures; others are unfermented coconut desserts, with starches or thickeners that mimic the texture. It's a broad category, and the label is the only thing that really tells them apart.
What is fermented coconut?
Fermented coconut starts from coconut —coconut cream and water— to which lactic cultures are added. The result is a creamy product, 100 % plant-based and dairy-free. In COCO by Angela's case, it's also organic, gluten-free and with no added sugars. If you're interested in the process, we tell you about it in what fermented coconut is and how it's made.
The differences that matter
- Ingredients. Some coconut products on the market combine coconut with starches, thickeners or sugars. A good fermented coconut aims for a short, recognisable ingredient list.
- Texture. It varies with the recipe: thicker to eat by the spoonful, or runnier and drinkable.
- Fermentation. Fermented coconut is defined precisely by containing cultures; not all the coconut products on the shelf are fermented.
- Naming. European rules reserve certain dairy names for products of animal origin. That's why plant-based options are called "fermented coconut" or "coconut dessert", and not by the name of the equivalent dairy product.
What to look for on the label
When comparing, look at these points:
- Organic. The European organic logo sets certain production requirements. We explain it in what the European organic logo means.
- No added sugars. Check the label: it's one of the biggest differences between brands.
- Creaminess and format. Think about whether you want it for breakfast, for cooking or for drinking.
- Cultures. Check that the product says it contains them, if that's what you're after.
COCO by Angela organic fermented coconut
Our fermented coconut is made by hand in Catalonia, with organic coconut, dairy-free, gluten-free and with no added sugars. It's available in a 500 g size, an individual 125 g one and as kefir-style fermented coconut, which is more drinkable.
If you want to know more, take a look at our frequently asked questions. And find where to buy it in the stockist finder.
Frequently asked questions
Is a fermented coconut vegan?
The versions made only with coconut and cultures, with no animal milk, are suitable for vegan diets. It's worth checking the label, because some recipes mix coconut with ingredients of dairy origin.
Why are these products called "fermented" or "coconut dessert"?
Because European rules reserve certain dairy names for products of animal origin. That's why plant-based alternatives are usually called fermented or coconut dessert.
Does fermented coconut contain sugar?
COCO by Angela's is made with no added sugars. In other brands it may vary, so it's worth looking at the label.
Where to buy organic fermented coconut?
In organic shops, gourmet supermarkets and health-food stores in Spain and Portugal. You can locate the nearest one in the COCO by Angela stockist finder.