Non-thermal two-stage microfiltration technique in aseptic conditions was used to preserve coconut
water. Concentrations of citric acid (0.02 g/100 mL), ascorbic acid (0.18 g/100 mL) and L-cysteine (0.009 g/
100 mL) were standardized according to taste and added to coconut water as natural additives. The
coconut water was packed in glass and plastic bottles after flushing the headspace with nitrogen and
stored under refrigeration (4 C). The microfiltered water was studied for microbial, sensory and physicochemical
properties for a period of 46 days. The quality of the water packed in glass bottles was better
in all respects. The total soluble solids changed from 5.4 to 6 Brix. The pH changed from 5.7 to 5.8. The
soluble sugar concentration increased from 1.9 g/100 mL to 3.1 g/100 mL, free fatty acid content
increased from 0.064 mg KOH/g to 2.8 mg KOH/g at the end of 46 days, which was much lower than the
changes in control. The protein content decreased in all the samples. Two way ANOVA showed that the
storage time had more impact on the sensory properties of the product than the packaging material. The
glass bottled product was acceptable on sensory basis till 46 days of storage