Sweetcorn facts
With 184 million hectares of both human and animal corn grown worldwide
Sweetcorn today is very different from the corn that indigenous people once grew. Through selective breeding, farmers have steadily domesticated corn changing its size, colour and flavour in the process. Corn is dense in carbohydrates but low in vitamins and minerals which is why it is widely speculated by nutritionists as to whether it is nutritious enough. Here are some benefits of corn:
- Corn is typically affordable across the world meaning it can be grown easily and is able to grow in power countries
- Corn is rich in antioxidants, specifically, carotenoids which is usually found in dark leafy greens, carrots and sweet potatoes
- It contains dietary fibre which helps with digestion.
- Although corn is technically a grain, it is gluten free, making tit safe for coeliacs (always check with your doctor first)
- Corn is high in protein which is especially beneficial for vegetarians and vegans who seek to increase their protein intake through vegetables.
But did you know that the majority of corn (maize) grown in the UK is cultivated for animal feed? This corn is inedible (or strongly suggested not to be eaten) but is now one of the world’s most important cereal crop. With 184 million hectares of both human and animal corn grown worldwide, annual maize production is at an all time high of 992 million tonnes. In the UK, the majority of maize is grown in the South west, whilst the South east grows three-fifths in comparison.