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Cocos nucifera L., native to the coastal tropics of the Indo-Pacific and the Americas, is a perennial palm tree belonging to the Arecaceae family. Its traditional use is focused on the exploitation of its fruit; however, around 35% of its fibrous fraction is discarded. This waste contains various compounds with biological properties that improve the functional, nutritional, and organoleptic characteristics of foods. This study characterized the physicochemical, technological, and microbiological properties of coconut mesocarp. The samples were dehydrated and pulverized to obtain a dry matrix, and physicochemical, technological, and microbiological parameters were analyzed to identify their composition and functional properties. Coconut mesocarp is a stable, low-moisture matrix. Its functional properties show significant water and oil absorption and retention capacity, as well as resistance to total dissolution in aqueous media. The microbiological profile of the mesocarp complies with the limits established in the NTE INEN 616:2015 standard, demonstrating that it is a safe ingredient. These findings highlight the potential of this raw material for the development of functional foods, thus contributing to the valorization of this agricultural by-product.
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