When thieves start targeting coconut oil, you know something’s cooking in Kerala’s kitchens and markets. Prices for this “liquid gold” had soared to record highs, squeezing households, caterers, and traders alike. But just before Onam, the bubble burst. In this episode of News Brake, we crack open the story of how demand and supply side factors reshaped Kerala’s coconut economy — and what it means for the state’s most beloved ingredient. Joining the conversation are Thalath Mahmood, President of the Cochin Merchants Association, and Shahul Hameed, State Secretary of the All Kerala Caterers’ Association, who share their insights.