MAKAPUNO or MACAPUNO

The Philippine Coconut Authority translates makapuno as coconut "sport" -- it is technically the very soft endosperm of coconuts. It contains high levels of galactomannan, a polysaccharide that is classified as a gum. It is galactomannan that gives makapuno its jelly-like solid endosperm and highly viscous liquid endosperm.


The particular tree from which makapuno is taken is a dwarf mutant with the scientific name Cocos nucifera. Dolores Ramirez of the University of the Philippines at Los Baños (UPLB)  is widely credited for working on the genetic systems controlling the makapuno endosperm of coconuts.


Macapuno  is considered a delicacy in the Philippines. It is preserved in heavy sugar syrup, usually as long shreds. You can buy bottled macapuno, which can be used as an ingredient in halo-halo. It is  also a popular flavor of ice cream.