Types of corn and their uses

Mais is one of the most important agricultural crops in the world, being a precious source of food for humans and animals, but also an essential raw material for various sectors. Due to its genetic diversity, there are different types of cornEach with specific characteristics that make it suitable for certain uses. From corn for animal feed, to that used for consumption or human industry, this versatile plant plays a crucial role in the global economy. Here are the main types of corn and their specific uses.

1.

Mais departs are the most cultivated type of corn all over the world, recognized for its specific form. Its cereals develop an in -depth analysis (hence the name «affecting») while drying, due to the difference in contraction between the two types of starch it contains: Amiloza and Amilopectin. This type of corn has a high starch content, which makes it extremely precious both for the feeding of animals and for industrial production.

Uses:

• Animal feed – distributed corn is widely used in the feeding of animals due to the high digestibility and high energy content. It can be administered in the form of whole grains, land or processed in combined feed.
• Food industry – From the dean the starch used in the production of corn syrup, corn oil, glucose and other ingredients in the food industry is extracted.
• Production of ethanol – It is one of the main raw materials used to obtain bioethanol, a renewable fuel used with petrol.
• Production of industrial products – The starch extracted from the departs is also used in the production of stickers, biodegradable plastics, paper and fabrics.

2.

This type of corn is characterized by its strong and smooth grains, which contain a hard external layer, largely formed by Amilopectin. This layer gives him a longer resistance to the damage and a longer conservation time.

Uses:

• Corn flour – glass corn is commonly ground for the production of corn flour, used in various traditional dishes, such as muffins, tortillas or corn bread.
• Animal feed – Due to its hardness, this type of corn is used in the feeding of animals, especially in the regions in which corn is not so available.
• Beer production – The starch extracted from the glass corn is used as a source of fermentation in the beer sector, helping to obtain products with easier and less bitter taste.

3. Porumbul Ceros (Zea Mays Cerato)

Mais Ceros is known for its specific appearance, with cereals covered with a layer of life. Unlike other types of corn, it mainly contains amylopectin, a type of starch that gives it a more sticky consistency.

Uses:

• Food industry – Starch in Mais Ceros is used as a thickening agent in various culinary preparations, such as soups, sauces and desserts.
• The pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry – Due to its properties to train gel and stable emulsions, the starch extracted from ceric corn is used in the production of pharmaceutical tablets and cosmetic products.
• Animal feed – The high content of Amilopectin means that this type of corn is easily digestible, being frequently used in the feeding of animals.

4 ..

Unlike other types of corn, the corn is collected before completely ripe cereals, when the sugar content is at most. This gives him a sweet taste and a succulent consistency.

Uses:

• Fresh consumption – Mais is a popular vegetable, consummated boiled, cooked or in salads and gaskets.
• Food industry – It is developed and preserved in the form of frozen or preserved corn, to be available throughout the year.
• Nutrition – In addition to the pleasant taste, it is a precious source of fiber, vitamins (B6, C) and antioxidants, which contribute to a healthy diet.

5. Popcorn Mais (Zea Mays Enderta)

The corn destined for the production of flowers is distinguished by its strong peel and a high water content inside the cereals. During heating, the water turns into steam, causing the explosion of the cereals.

Uses:

• Popcorn production – It is used both at home and in the food industry for the preparation of corn flowers.
• Healthy snack – corn peaks are a low calorie, but rich in fiber, appreciated for their nutritional benefits.
• Expanded cereals – It is also used in the production of some types of breakfast cereals.

6. Purple corn and other colorful varieties

Purple, red, blue or black corn contains high levels of anthocyanins, composed with strong antioxidant properties.

Uses:

• Functional foods – purple corn and other colorful varieties are used in products rich in nutrients, such as purple corn, tortilla and healthy chips.
• Nutritional supplements – Due to antioxidant benefits, it is used in food supplements intended to improve cardiovascular health.
• Gourmet gastronomy – Popular in modern cuisine and in the markets of premium products.

7. Decorative corn (Indian horn)

This type of corn is grown for its aesthetic appearance, with multicolored cereals, but is not intended for human consumption.

Uses:

• Autumn decorations – It is used to create thematic agreements, especially during crops.
• Crafts and hobbies – It is popular in art and interior design projects.

In the end

Corn is an extremely diversified culture, with numerous uses in nutrition, nutrition, industry and even in the pharmaceutical field. The choice of the right type of corn depends on the purpose for which it is grown and elaborate, each variety with distinct characteristics that make it ideal for certain uses.