Difference Between Field Corn And Sweet Corn Pictures
When it comes to corn, there are two main types that people are usually familiar with: field corn and sweet corn. While they may look similar at first glance, there are actually quite a few differences between the two. In this article, we’ll explore those differences in detail, with plenty of pictures to help you understand the distinctions.
What is Field Corn?
Field corn, also known as dent corn, is a type of corn that is primarily grown for animal feed, ethanol production, and industrial uses. It’s called “dent corn” because it has a small dent on the top of each kernel, which is where the corn gets its name.
Field corn is usually taller than sweet corn, with thinner stalks and leaves. The ears are longer and thinner as well, with kernels that are larger and harder than those of sweet corn. Field corn is almost always yellow or white, and it can have a variety of uses beyond animal feed and ethanol production. It’s used in everything from cereal to tortilla chips to plastics and adhesives.
What is Sweet Corn?
Sweet corn is a corn variety that is primarily grown for human consumption. Unlike field corn, sweet corn is harvested while the kernels are still in the “milk stage” – meaning they are soft and contain a lot of natural sugars. This makes sweet corn much more tender and juicy than field corn.
When it comes to appearance, sweet corn is usually shorter than field corn, with thicker stalks and leaves. The ears are shorter and thicker as well, with kernels that are smaller and softer than those of field corn. Sweet corn comes in a variety of colors, including yellow, white, and even bi-color (which has both yellow and white kernels on the same cob).
Can You Eat Field Corn?
While you technically can eat field corn, it’s not generally recommended. Field corn is much harder and more starchy than sweet corn, which means that it’s not nearly as enjoyable to eat straight off the cob. However, that doesn’t mean that field corn is completely inedible – it’s often ground into flour or meal to make a variety of foods, including tortillas, polenta, and cornbread.
Which Type of Corn is Best?
When it comes to choosing between field corn and sweet corn, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re a farmer looking to grow corn for animal feed or industrial use, then field corn is definitely the way to go. But if you’re a consumer looking for sweet, juicy corn to enjoy on the cob or in recipes, then sweet corn is the clear winner.
Of course, there are plenty of other factors to consider as well, such as taste, texture, and nutritional value. Sweet corn is definitely higher in natural sugars, making it a better option for those with a sweet tooth. However, field corn is usually higher in fiber and protein, making it a good choice for those looking to add more nutrients to their diet.
Final Thoughts
While field corn and sweet corn may look similar at first glance, it’s important to understand the differences between the two. Whether you’re a farmer or a consumer, knowing which type of corn is best for your needs can help you make more informed decisions and get the most out of this versatile crop.
