Difference Between Feed Corn And Regular Corn
Corn is a widely cultivated crop and one of the most popular grains in the world. However, there are different types of corn grown for different purposes. Feed corn and regular corn are two of the most common types of corn grown in the United States. Although they may look similar, they have significant differences in terms of their uses, nutritional value, and cultivation process. This article will explore the difference between feed corn and regular corn in-depth.
What Is Feed Corn?
Feed corn is a type of corn that is primarily used as animal feed. It is also known as field corn or dent corn because of its hard, dent-like kernel. It is different from sweet corn, which is the type of corn commonly eaten by humans. Feed corn is usually harvested later than sweet corn, and its kernels are drier and tougher. This makes it suitable for storage and transportation.
What Is Regular Corn?
Regular corn, also known as sweet corn, is the type of corn that is commonly eaten by humans. It is different from feed corn in several ways. First of all, it has a higher sugar content, which gives it its sweet taste. Secondly, it is harvested earlier than feed corn, when the kernels are still in the milk stage. This makes it tender and juicy. Regular corn is usually sold fresh or canned, and it is not suitable for storage and transportation like feed corn.
Uses
The main difference between feed corn and regular corn is their uses. As mentioned earlier, feed corn is primarily used as animal feed. It is a cheap and abundant source of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber for livestock, poultry, and other animals. Feed corn is also used to make ethanol, which is a type of biofuel. On the other hand, regular corn is used for human consumption. It is boiled, roasted, grilled, or canned and used as a side dish, snack, or ingredient in many foods, such as cornbread, tortillas, and popcorn. Sweet corn is also used as a source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber in the human diet.
Nutritional Value
Feed corn and regular corn have different nutritional values. Feed corn is a good source of energy, but it has relatively low levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is also high in starch and carbohydrates, which can cause digestive problems in some animals. Regular corn, on the other hand, is a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals, such as potassium and magnesium. It is also relatively low in fat and calories. However, sweet corn loses some of its nutritional value when it is cooked or canned.
Cultivation Process
Feed corn and regular corn are also grown differently. Feed corn is usually grown in large quantities in monoculture fields using conventional farming methods. It is often treated with pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers to increase its yield and reduce pest damage. Regular corn, on the other hand, is often grown in smaller quantities using more sustainable farming practices, such as organic or non-GMO methods. Sweet corn is often planted in separate rows from other crops to prevent cross-pollination and maintain its flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, feed corn and regular corn are two different types of corn that have different uses, nutritional value, and cultivation process. Feed corn is primarily used as animal feed and biofuel, while regular corn is consumed by humans and used in many foods. Feed corn is a good source of energy, but it lacks vitamins and minerals, while regular corn is more nutritious and low in fat and calories. Both types of corn are grown differently, with feed corn often grown in large monoculture fields and regular corn grown using more sustainable methods. Understanding the difference between feed corn and regular corn can help you choose the right type of corn for your needs.
