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VOL. 11, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Development of a coconut vinegar generator for efficient vinegar production
Authors
Gowtham S B, Rajendra B, Ravi K K, Saketh R K, Prathima K, Rohit L, Gangaraju P
Abstract
Waste coconut water generated during mature coconut processing
represents an underutilized organic by-product that can cause disposal problems
when released without treatment, yet its fermentable sugars and nutrients make
it suitable for sustainable value addition. This study aimed to develop and
evaluate a low-cost coconut vinegar generator for converting waste coconut
water into vinegar under controlled laboratory conditions. The generator was
fabricated using food-grade high-density polyethylene (HDPE) materials and
simple fittings, including an HDPE container, inlet pipe, outlet valve, funnel,
cap, and sealing components, to provide hygienic handling, controlled filling,
and convenient product recovery. Coconut vinegar was produced through a
sequential two-stage fermentation process. In the first stage, supplemented
coconut water was inoculated with Saccharomyces cerevisiae to convert
fermentable sugars into ethanol through alcoholic fermentation. In the second
stage, mother vinegar containing Acetobacter culture was added, and
aerobic conditions were maintained to oxidize ethanol into acetic acid. The
developed unit operated satisfactorily during fermentation, draining, and
cleaning, with no major leakage or instability. The final vinegar showed
acceptable physicochemical properties, with pH values of 2.9 –3.3, acetic acid
content of 5–6%, and moisture content of 96–98%, indicating effective
acidification and product stability. Sensory evaluation indicated clear
appearance, pleasant acidic aroma, and acceptable sour taste. The low
fabrication cost made the system suitable for small-scale and rural production.
Overall, the developed generator provided an economical and sustainable
approach for valorising waste coconut water, supporting environmental protection,
value addition, future scale-up of decentralized vinegar production, and
practical fermentation-based rural enterprise development opportunities.
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Pages:227-238
How to cite this article:
Gowtham S B, Rajendra B, Ravi K K, Saketh R K, Prathima K, Rohit L, Gangaraju P "Development of a coconut vinegar generator for efficient vinegar production". International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition, Vol 11, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 227-238
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