Corn is an incredibly popular vegetable worldwide, and it graces the vegetable section of U.S. grocery stores throughout the summer. While you might be accustomed to the classic yellow corn, the Mayo Clinic reminds us that corn comes in a variety of colors, including white, red, orange, purple, black, and blue. Regardless of the color, they all provide a wide range of health benefits.
The vegetable has often been criticized for its high starch and sugar content, as mentioned by WebMD. However, corn is packed with fiber that helps keep you satiated longer while also nourishing the healthy bacteria in your digestive system. Additionally, it is rich in vitamin C, which is excellent for protecting your cells from damage and boosting your immune system. Besides, corn offers a variety of other vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamins K, E, and B.
One of the benefits of adding corn to your diet is its versatility in preparation, allowing it to be included in numerous dishes. You might enjoy it boiled on the cob or grilled alongside a burger at a summer BBQ. Alternatively, you may prefer popping dried kernels into popcorn for a weekend movie night. If you’ve only ever cooked corn and are curious about trying it raw, there are some things you should know.
Raw corn is safe to eat with a few precautions
There is no need to avoid eating raw corn if you’re interested in doing so, as long as certain precautions are taken (according to Addicted to Veggies). Before bringing the corn into your kitchen, ensure it was recently harvested. Once a cob of corn is plucked from the stalk, the kernels start producing an enzyme that reduces its sweetness — if you’re eating it raw, you certainly don’t want to lose this essential flavor (via Vacmaster Fresh).
Another important step to take before consuming raw corn is to wash it thoroughly beforehand (via Addicted to Veggies). This greatly reduces the risk of accidentally ingesting Salmonella, a harmful bacteria that can reside on corn and cause various digestive issues, including vomiting and diarrhea. Since you won’t be cooking the corn to eliminate any potential bacteria, washing is the best method to remove these microscopic threats.
It’s also worth noting that raw corn is not easily digested by the human body. In fact, experts recommend consuming it only once per week to avoid potential constipation, gas, bloating, and stomach cramps. By properly preparing your raw corn, you can enjoy it in various ways. For instance, you can combine it with cooked beans to create a complete protein, as suggested by Oh My Veggies.
