Plain 100% coconut water is already low in sugar, about 2.6 g per 100 ml, so “low sugar coconut water” usually refers to coconut water drinks that are diluted or lightly sweetened rather than to pure coconut water. In the EU, a “low sugars” claim on a drink requires no more than 2.5 g per 100 ml.

Key facts at a glance

  • Pure coconut water: about 19 kcal and 2.6 g sugar per 100 ml.
  • Coconut water drinks may be diluted and sweetened.
  • Korean-style products are lighter, often with less coconut water.
  • Potassium falls in proportion to dilution.
  • Check the coconut water percentage on the label.

250ml can of low-sugar coconut water drink

Three types compared

100% coconut waterLow-sugar coconut drinkSweetened coconut drink
Coconut water share100%Often 30–80%Varies
Sugar per 100 mlabout 2.6 g (natural)about 2–4 g6–10 g
Potassiumabout 250 mgLowerLower
TasteNatural, slightly saltyLight, cleanSweet

Coconut water production line

How to read the label

  1. Coconut water percentage — 100% or less.
  2. Sugars per 100 ml — and whether sugar or sweetener is added.
  3. Potassium figure, if you drink it for electrolytes.

Frequently asked questions

Does coconut water have a lot of sugar?

No. Pure coconut water has about 2.6 g per 100 ml, much less than fruit juice.

What is Korean-style coconut water?

A lighter coconut drink, often diluted and lightly sweetened, popular in Korean convenience retail.

Is low-sugar coconut water better than regular?

Compared with sweetened coconut drinks, yes. Compared with pure coconut water, it usually has less coconut water and fewer electrolytes.

Coconut water from ACM Beverage

ACM Beverage produces pure and low-sugar coconut water drinks in Vietnam for OEM and private label customers. See the 250 ml low-sugar coconut water drink or the coconut water range. Related reading: low-sugar labels explained.

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