Brown Spots On Corn On The Cob
Corn on the cob is a popular summer staple in the United States. It's tasty, versatile, and easy to prepare. However, sometimes you'll notice brown spots on the corn kernels. If you're wondering what these spots are and whether you should be concerned, keep reading to learn more. In this article, we'll discuss the causes of brown spots on corn on the cob and how to treat them.
What Causes Brown Spots on Corn on the Cob?
Before we delve into the causes of brown spots on corn, let's first understand what corn is. Corn is a grain, and like all grains, it has a protective outer layer called the hull or bran. When corn is harvested, the hull is removed, revealing the kernel inside. The kernel is made up of three parts: the endosperm, the germ, and the pericarp.
The pericarp is the outer layer of the kernel, and it contains pigments that give corn its color. When corn is exposed to sunlight, the pigments in the pericarp break down, causing the kernel to turn brown. This is a natural process, and it's not harmful to eat.
However, sometimes you'll notice brown spots on the corn kernels that are not a result of natural pigmentation. These spots can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections can cause brown spots on corn on the cob. The most common fungal infection that affects corn is Fusarium ear rot. Fusarium ear rot is caused by the fungus Fusarium verticillioides, and it typically affects corn that has been damaged by insects or drought. Fusarium ear rot can cause brown to black discoloration on the kernels, and it can also produce mycotoxins that are harmful to humans and animals.
Insects
Insects can also cause brown spots on corn on the cob. The most common insect that affects corn is the corn earworm. Corn earworms are the larvae of a moth, and they feed on the kernels of the corn. When corn earworms feed on the kernels, they leave behind brown frass (insect excrement) that can cause discoloration.
Environmental Stress
Environmental stress can also cause brown spots on corn on the cob. When corn is exposed to extreme heat or drought, it can become stressed. This stress can cause the kernels to develop brown spots.
How to Treat Brown Spots on Corn on the Cob
The treatment for brown spots on corn on the cob depends on the cause. If the brown spots are a result of natural pigmentation, there's nothing to worry about. However, if the brown spots are caused by a fungal infection or insect infestation, it's best to discard the affected corn.
If you're not sure whether the brown spots are natural or caused by an infection or infestation, you can do a simple test. Cut off a small section of the corn and inspect the kernels. If the brown spots are only on the surface of the kernels, it's likely a result of natural pigmentation. However, if the brown spots go all the way through the kernels, it's likely a result of an infection or infestation.
To prevent brown spots on corn on the cob, it's important to store your corn properly. Keep the corn in a cool, dry place, and don't expose it to sunlight. If you notice any signs of infection or infestation, discard the affected corn immediately.
Conclusion
Brown spots on corn on the cob can be a natural result of pigmentation or a sign of an infection or infestation. It's important to know the difference and to take appropriate measures to prevent and treat brown spots. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your corn on the cob is healthy and delicious.