We chat with CHRISTIAN EYDE MOELLER, CEO of Lionheart Farms about their brand new natural energy drink and the sustainable business behind it. Here we introduce the tasty world of coconut drink benefits that come from the flower, not the flesh! Plus, scroll down for information about an exclusive giveaway and a chance to win a case of these drinks!
Starting a sustainable business
Lionheart Farms is a Palawan, Philippines-based company that produces high-quality organic products made from coconut flower sap, marketed under the CÓCOES brand. Earlier this year, the company announced the launch of The Power of SLOW, a beverage that Christian is hoping will “redefine refreshment”.
A farmer’s son from Denmark, Christian grew up with a dream of living in Asia. That journey began 35 years ago when he first worked in this part of the world. It ultimately led him to co-founding Lionheart with an old friend in Hong Kong. From that foundation came the development of a range of organic, healthy, sustainably farmed condiments, sweeteners and beverages that are adding a welcome point of difference to the marketplace.
A natural energy drink with a difference
The inspiration for The Power of SLOW came to the Danish entrepreneur around 10 years ago. That was when he first saw Filipinos tapping coconut flower sap and enjoying the product in its natural state. Indians, Malays and others from coconut-growing countries do the same thing. The sap has to be quickly consumed before it ferments into vinegar – otherwise, it can be drunk as an alcoholic beverage known as neera (or tuba in the Philippines).
“When we tasted this pure energy from nature and heard stories of its benefits, we were keen to explore the universe of coconut flower sap and share it with the world,” says Christian.
The name of the energy drink stems from its Low Glycaemic Index health benefits and the power of slow release energy. Compare the “spike” experienced from high levels of added sugar so common in the soft drinks industry.
“Listening to the stories of coconut farmers, it became clear that almost every Filipino is aware of its power and benefits,” adds Christian. “I also observed it being sold fresh along farm roads in India as a health drink.”
Christian says there’s an added connection to the concept of Slow Living, too, which encourages a more reflective and healthier lifestyle. It’s a nice tie-in with a handcrafted, pure-from-nature drink that’s a source of amino acids and minerals that support hydration and energy.
A sustainable model
The sustainable business aspect and the eco-friendly production process is another part of the appeal. The coconut palm is also often referred to as the “Tree of Life”, literally because nothing goes to waste. Also, it has a long lifespan during which it absorbs significant amounts of carbon. This helps to offset CO2 emissions, much like a rainforest.
“At our own farm, we practice organic regenerative agriculture using natural farming methods,” says Christian.
“Harvesting the sap instead of the nuts also yields a much higher caloric value. This directly translates into economic value. In short, it’s a superior livelihood for farming communities that are at risk of being left behind. Having said that, it’s a labour-intensive and technically demanding process, as each coconut palm must be harvested several times a day, and the sap processed in real time to preserve all of its benefits.”
Taste testing
Time to cut to the chase: How does the energy drink taste?
“At first, I was drawn to its naturally refreshing taste,” says Christian.
“But as we developed various flavours in both carbonated and non-carbonated versions, I discovered my preference for different tastes at different times of the day, knowing that I can connect with some of my favourite flavours like citrus in our carbonated Calamansi version or the iced tea notes in the Oolong Citrus Grape. When you try these naturally flavoured versions of the drink, you’ll immediately experience a natural taste. But you might also find yourself saying, ‘It tastes similar to…’ while realising it’s a healthier and more sustainable option.”
There is also an Original version, which Christian likens to the experience of drinking coconut water from a young coconut on a tropical island. He says its cleaner taste distinguishes it from many processed coconut waters in the market that contain added sugars.
More of this coconut drink’s benefits
What, then, is Christian’s ultimate vision and hope for these energy drinks, and for CÓCOES more broadly?
“To excite consumers around the world! The vision is ‘Our Farm to You’, which is all about connecting consumers with the possibility of being able to drive the sustainable transformation of agriculture in the region and bring forward the next generation of farmers. I talk about making farming ‘sexy’ as a way to open the eyes of the younger generations and inspire them to see the possibilities in today’s more connected world.”
Keen cooks interested in the coconut drink’s benefits who want to take it further should explore the CÓCOES range of kitchen condiments. They include Organic Coconut Flower Syrup (a versatile liquid sweetener that adds a rich caramel taste to pancakes, sauces, dressings and beverages) to Organic Coconut Flower Aminos (a savoury alternative to soy sauce, adding umami depth to marinades, stir-fries and dips) and Organic Coconut Flower Vinegar (made from naturally fermented coconut flower sap, preserving most of its nutrients).
Did you know?
The Power of SLOW was recently recognised as “Best Beverage 2024” in the Katha Awards, hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines. These prestigious awards recognise not only innovative and sustainable food and beverage products but also design. The brand also received a citation for Sustainability.
Giveaway!
We are giving away 10 cases of this natural energy drink! All you need to do is fill out this form to enter the competition. If you win, your case will be delivered to your door.
You can purchase the energy drinks directly from cocoes.com. The sustainable business also continues to expand its presence, adding more stores in Hong Kong and key global markets.
This article about coconut drink benefits first appeared in the Autumn 2024 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
See more in our Wine & Dine section.
