One Hungry Mama

September 9th, 2012

Ever wonder why industrial corn is bad? Here’s a simple answer.

It pains me that we’re barreling towards the end of sweet corn season. I’m buying ears like they’re going out of style, making everything from corn risotto (coming soon!), corn tacos, corn waffles, corn salad on corn cakes, corn stock, fresh-frozen corn, and more. This stuff is gold. And, apparently, not just to me.

The corn business is huge. If you’ve read The Omnivores Dilemma you’re acquainted with industrial corn, the source of an astounding number of processed food ingredients and fillers that save manufactures lots of money, many believe at the cost of bad health and environmental damage. If you haven’t read Michael Pollan’s seminal book—or you’re looking for a quick refresher—this infographic gives a simplified overview of why many think corn is big, bad business.

It’s hard to believe that something so delicious could be such a big problem but, rest assured: The sweet kernels grown for our summer eating enjoyment are not the same as the tasteless crops raised to make high fructose corn syrup and fast food fillers. There’s no reason to stop eating corn—as long as we’re talking mostly on the cob.

Check out this infographic from LearnStuff, then enjoy some sweet, glorious corn as we were made to eat it: fresh.