Difference In Sweet Corn And Field Corn
If you are fond of corn, you may have noticed that there are different types of corn, including sweet corn and field corn. Although they may look similar, there are some significant differences between the two types of corn that you should know before choosing one. In this article, we will discuss the differences between sweet corn and field corn in detail.
What is Sweet Corn?
Sweet corn is a type of corn that is consumed primarily as a vegetable. It is harvested while it is still in the immature stage, which is when the kernels are milky and tender. Sweet corn is prized for its juicy and sweet kernels, which make it a popular ingredient in many dishes such as salads, soups, and stews. It is also consumed as a side dish or a snack.
What is Field Corn?
Field corn, on the other hand, is a type of corn that is harvested when it is fully mature, which is when the kernels are hard and dry. Unlike sweet corn, field corn is not consumed directly by humans. Instead, it is primarily grown as a feed for livestock and as an ingredient in many processed foods. It is also used for its oil, which is extracted from the corn kernel and used in various industrial applications.
Appearance
One of the most significant differences between sweet corn and field corn is their appearance. Sweet corn has a yellow or white kernel, which is soft and juicy. In contrast, field corn has a harder and drier kernel, which is typically yellow or brown in color. Additionally, sweet corn has a shorter stalk compared to field corn, which is taller and more robust.
Taste and Texture
The taste and texture of sweet corn and field corn are also quite different. Sweet corn has a sweet, juicy, and tender kernel, which is a result of its high sugar content. Its texture is soft, and it requires less cooking time compared to field corn. In contrast, field corn has a less sweet and less juicy kernel, which is why it is not consumed directly by humans. Its texture is hard, and it requires a longer cooking time to become edible.
Health Benefits
Sweet corn and field corn differ significantly in terms of their nutritional value. Sweet corn is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and dietary fiber. It is also rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, which help in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. In contrast, field corn is primarily composed of starch and does not have significant amounts of vitamins or minerals.
Uses
Sweet corn and field corn have different uses. Sweet corn is primarily consumed as a vegetable and is used in various dishes such as salads, soups, and stews. It is also consumed as a side dish or a snack. In contrast, field corn is used for various purposes such as animal feed, processed foods, and industrial applications. It is used to make corn syrup, cornstarch, and other corn-based products such as ethanol and biofuel.
Cooking Methods
The cooking methods for sweet corn and field corn are also different. Sweet corn can be boiled, steamed, roasted, or grilled, and it requires less cooking time compared to field corn. On the other hand, field corn requires a longer cooking time and is typically boiled or roasted. It is also used in various processed foods such as corn flakes, cornbread, and tortilla chips.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sweet corn and field corn are two different types of corn with significant differences in appearance, taste and texture, nutritional value, and uses. Sweet corn is primarily consumed as a vegetable and is known for its sweet, juicy, and tender kernels. In contrast, field corn is not consumed directly by humans and is primarily used as animal feed and as an ingredient in many processed foods. So, next time you are buying corn, make sure you know the difference between sweet corn and field corn to make an informed choice.