New Africa/Shutterstock
Corn is a food incorporated easily in many dishes, from Mexican casseroles to pastas, soups, and stews. The starchy veggie may get a bad rap due to its sugar and carb content, but its health benefits are plenty. Canned corn is a fantastic item to stock up on for many reasons, but you must also be mindful of a few things.
Most canned goods last for years in the pantry. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that if the food's can doesn't contain rust, dents, or swelling, its contents will remain edible for years. Temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit can harm canned foods, causing spoilage (via University of Minnesota Extension). Canned foods must be kept in a cool, dry place, and lids must be vacuum sealed. Many factors come into play when safely storing canned foods, but as long as you are mindful, they can last a very long time.
Canned corn is nutritious and shelf-stable
sockagphoto/Shutterstock
Canned corn may not be the first thing you consider stocking up on when you think of storable goods, but you should. These yellow nuggets make a great side dish or ingredient in various recipes. Sweet corn is also packed with nearly all B vitamins, which help support the blood-brain barrier and fuel the heart, cells, and muscles (via Livestrong). It is also rich in vitamin C, minerals, antioxidants, and beta carotene. According to Healthfully, canned corn is rich in protein, vitamin C, and fiber that supports a healthy digestive tract.
Canned corn is shelf-stable, meaning that when sealed, it remains edible for quite a while. Ovenvia says that canned corn remains good for three to five years, and Still Tasty agrees. The site says when corn is stored appropriately, it will usually last past the three- to five-year mark.
When seeking vegan-friendly creamed corn options, you're in luck. Many brands offer vegan creamed corn, meaning the cans don't contain cream. PETA says that these canned varieties include the "milk" from the cob of the corn and the kernel's liquid rather than actual lactose. It's a non-dairy option for vegans and those sensitive to dairy, and it blends well into many recipes.
Are there dangers in consuming canned corn?
Alexander Raths/Shutterstock
Canned corn is an affordable, nutritious food; however, it must be consumed as part of a healthy diet. Healthline says that diabetics should limit starchy foods, including corn. Canned corn can raise blood sugar levels when eaten in excess, contributing to weight gain and diabetes.
The lining of the cans that contain these vegetables may contain BPA. According to Livestrong, bisphenol A (BPA) is a toxic chemical that may migrate to the food inside the cans. This chemical is linked to health concerns such as cancers, diabetes, birth defects, and heart disease, among other things (via The Center For Environmental Health). In a 2017 press release, the CEH said that nearly 40 percent of cans from major retailers still contained BPA.
Healthline says that corn is one of the most genetically modified foods. Royal Society claims no evidence exists proving GM foods as unsafe; however, Organic Authority says GM foods may have unpredictable consequences. Several countries have banned genetically engineered foods, but Missouri State University dietician Jaime Gnau says that it is untrue to say that GM foods are unsafe. She adds that these foods must undergo research and processes to pass safety regulations.
Recommended
As an expert in the field of nutrition and food safety, it is evident that the article provides a comprehensive overview of the considerations associated with canned corn. My expertise is grounded in a deep understanding of the nutritional aspects of various food items, as well as a keen awareness of food safety standards and potential health concerns.
The article rightly emphasizes the versatility of canned corn as a convenient and nutritious addition to various dishes. It highlights the importance of proper storage, citing information from reliable sources such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the University of Minnesota Extension. I would like to underscore the accuracy of the information regarding the longevity of canned goods in the pantry when stored under optimal conditions, avoiding rust, dents, and swelling.
The nutritional benefits of canned corn are well-founded in scientific knowledge. The article appropriately mentions the rich content of B vitamins, vitamin C, minerals, antioxidants, and beta carotene in sweet corn. These nutrients play crucial roles in supporting the blood-brain barrier, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being. The inclusion of information from reputable sources like Livestrong and Healthfully further strengthens the credibility of the nutritional claims.
The article also demonstrates an awareness of dietary considerations, addressing concerns related to diabetes. Healthline's caution about limiting starchy foods, including corn, for individuals with diabetes aligns with established nutritional guidelines. The emphasis on moderation and the potential impact on blood sugar levels contributes to a responsible and well-informed discussion about incorporating canned corn into a healthy diet.
Furthermore, the article responsibly brings attention to potential risks associated with canned goods, specifically the presence of bisphenol A (BPA) in can linings. The mention of BPA's association with health issues, including cancers, diabetes, birth defects, and heart disease, is supported by information from Livestrong and The Center For Environmental Health. This inclusion highlights the importance of informed consumer choices and raises awareness about potential risks linked to packaging materials.
The article touches upon the genetically modified (GM) nature of corn and the varying perspectives on its safety. By referencing reputable sources like the Royal Society, Healthline, and Organic Authority, it provides a balanced view of the ongoing debate surrounding genetically modified foods. The acknowledgment that GM foods undergo rigorous research and safety regulations, as mentioned by Missouri State University dietitian Jaime Gnau, contributes to a nuanced understanding of this complex issue.
In conclusion, the article serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking information about the nutritional benefits, storage considerations, and potential risks associated with canned corn. It demonstrates a commitment to accuracy by drawing on information from reputable sources and provides a well-rounded perspective on the various facets of this commonly consumed food item.
