Bukolyte, an instant young coconut (buko) powdered drink loaded with nutrients and minerals and contains electrolytes, has been officially launched.
The Food Processing Innovation Center (FPIC)–Davao launched the innovative food product in Davao City on Nov. 24 at the SM Ecoland, Davao City.
Bukolyte can treat dehydration caused by excessive vomiting and diarrhea, heavy sweating due to exercise and heat, and hangovers, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said.
"It is loaded with nutrients and minerals and contains four electrolytes, namely potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium that are known to support rapid hydration. It is particularly designed for modern on-the-go hydration that allows consumers to drink coconut water, anytime and anywhere,” it said.
DOST Secretary Fortunato “Boy” T. de la Peña said spray-dried buko powder Bukolyte is made from young coconut water and meat developed using spray-drying technology that converts liquid extracts into powder while preserving some of the important nutrients.
“It can be a healthy alternative to other fruit juices in the market because it has no artificial flavor and preservatives added. It is easy to prepare, just reconstitute the powder with water and serve according to taste.”
FPIC-Davao Center Manager Maria Christina B. Ramos and DOST XI Regional Director Dr. Anthony C. Sales led the launch of Bukolyte, one of the food innovation products of FPIC–Davao.
The FPIC-Davao serves as a one-stop-shop food research and development hub for local food processors, students, food technologies, and researchers who can collaborate and co-create value-adding food products.
It is a collaborative project by the DOST XI, Philippine Women’s College Davao, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) XI, and the Food Processors Association of Davao (FPAD), Inc.
The launch of the Bukolyte is part of the DOST’s virtual celebration of the 2021 National S&T Week (NSTW) from Nov. 22 to 28, which is anchored on the theme “Agham at Teknolohiya: Tugon sa Hamon ng Panahon.”
The NSTW celebration highlights all the research and development (R&D) outputs as well as innovative products and services developed and offered by DOST agencies and regional offices that aim to help address the challenges brought about by the pandemic and climate change, among other societal concerns confronting the Filipino people.