Corn is grown in many varieties for many different purposes. The United States in the leading producing of corn in the world. Corn is by far, the largest crop produced in the United States. US corn produced at two times the production of any other crop. The States which produce the most corn are in the mid-west and are referred to as the "Corn Belt" Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan, Wisconsin, Missouri, Kansas, and South Dakota. Most of the corn produced in the "Corn Belt" is field corn. Field corn is also called "dent corn" and accounts for 90% of the corn grown in the US. Field corn is used to feed farm animals and to create fuels and other items in many industries. Field corn is higher in starch in low in sugar than sweet corn. Other corns grown are sweet corn, popcorn, flint corn and flour corn.
Sweet corn is much different than field corn and is grown for human consumption. It accounts for only 5% of the US corn production. Most sweet corn is grown in California and as it's name suggests it is sweet and juicy. Sweet corn stalks grow around 8 feet tall producing about 2-5 ears of corn.
Many people hold misconceptions about sweet corn, considering a starchy food with very few health benefits. In reality sweet corn is a very nutritious food rich in the B vitamins folate and thiamin and high in fiber. Cooked sweet corn also contains ferulic acid, a natural antioxidant which protects the body from the damage of free radicals. Sweet corn also contains phytochemicals which promote healthy vision.
Sweet corn tastes great whether is it steamed, boiled or grilled on the barbeque and is a favorite with children. Be sure to add this healthy vegetable to your meal plans this summer.
Visit California's Department of Public Health's Harvest of the Month page on corn for some great educational activities for children.
If you are a child care provider in California you can receive cash reimbursements for providing healthy food to the children in your care. If you are a child care provider in El Dorado, Alpine, Placer, Nevada or Mono county our agency can help you enroll in the California Child Care Food Program (CCFP).
Recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables varies with age.
Children ages 2-3 need 1- 1.5 cups of fruits and 1- 1.5 cups of vegetables each day.
Children ages 4-8 need 1-2 cups of fruits and 1.5-2.5 cups of vegetables each day.
Children ages 9-13 need 1.5-2 cups of fruits and 1.5-3.5 cups of vegetables each day.
Teens ages14-18 need 1.5 -2.5 cups of fruits and 2.5-4 cups of vegetables each day.
Keep in mind that fruits and vegetables are rich in essential vitamins and minerals needed for optimum growth and development. Check out CDC's fruit and vegetable calculator for an more accurate recommendation based upon age, sex, and activity levels.
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| Half of your plate should have fruits and vegetables |
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