Difference Between Sweet Corn And Field Corn
Sweet corn and field corn are two distinct varieties of corn that are commonly grown in the United States. While both belong to the same family of plants, they differ in terms of their taste, texture, and uses. In this article, we will explore the differences between sweet corn and field corn in detail.
What is Sweet Corn?
Sweet corn is a type of corn that is harvested when immature, and the kernels are in their milky stage. This type of corn is mainly grown for human consumption and is considered a vegetable. Sweet corn has a sweet and juicy taste and a tender texture. It can be eaten fresh, canned, or frozen, and is often used in salads, soups, and cornbread.
What is Field Corn?
Field corn, also known as dent corn, is a type of corn that is harvested when mature and the kernels are dry and hard. This type of corn is mainly grown for animal feed, ethanol production, and other industrial uses. Field corn has a starchy taste and a tough texture, and is not suitable for human consumption unless it is processed into cornmeal, corn flour, or other products.
Differences in Appearance
One of the most noticeable differences between sweet corn and field corn is their appearance. Sweet corn has relatively large and plump kernels that are tightly packed on the cob. The kernels are usually yellow or white, although some varieties may have other colors such as red or blue. In contrast, field corn has smaller and more widely spaced kernels that are dented in the middle. The kernels are usually yellow, although some varieties may have other colors such as red or black.
Differences in Taste and Texture
The taste and texture of sweet corn and field corn are also quite different. Sweet corn has a high sugar content and a juicy texture, which gives it a sweet and tender flavor. In contrast, field corn has a starchy taste and a tough texture, which makes it less pleasant to eat raw. When cooked, sweet corn retains its moisture and tenderness, while field corn becomes dry and chewy.
Differences in Uses
Sweet corn and field corn have different uses due to their taste and texture. Sweet corn is mainly used for human consumption and is a popular ingredient in many dishes. It can be grilled, boiled, baked, or fried, and is often served as a side dish, snack, or garnish. Sweet corn is also used in the production of corn syrup, which is a common sweetener in many processed foods.
Field corn, on the other hand, is mainly used for animal feed, ethanol production, and other industrial uses. The dry kernels of field corn are ground into cornmeal, which is used to make various products such as cornbread, tortillas, and pancakes. Field corn is also used in the production of ethanol, which is a biofuel that is mixed with gasoline.
Conclusion
In summary, sweet corn and field corn are two distinct varieties of corn that differ in terms of their taste, texture, and uses. Sweet corn is mainly grown for human consumption and has a sweet and tender flavor, while field corn is mainly grown for animal feed and other industrial uses and has a starchy taste and a tough texture. Understanding the differences between sweet corn and field corn can help you choose the right type of corn for your needs.