Why you should never drink coconut water straight from the shell

Health experts are cautioning against drinking coconut water straight from the fruit due to potential contamination risks. Despite appearing fresh, coconuts can harbor bacteria and fungi if stored in warm, humid conditions. Microbes can enter through shell cracks or during handling, often without any visible signs of spoilage.

A 2021 case in Denmark highlights the danger: a 69-year-old man died after consuming coconut water contaminated with a toxin-producing fungus. He developed nausea, vomiting, confusion, and abnormal muscle movements, and passed away from multi-organ failure within 26 hours. Tests identified 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA), a fungal toxin that can severely damage the nervous system and vital organs.

Health risks from contaminated coconut water include:

Gastrointestinal distress: nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps

Neurological symptoms: dizziness, confusion, seizures, and muscle spasms

Respiratory issues: shortness of breath, chest tightness, or lung fluid buildup

Fatal outcomes: in rare cases, irreversible organ failure and death

Experts recommend consuming coconut water only when it is properly stored and handled, and advise choosing pasteurized or packaged versions to reduce the risk of contamination.