Commodity Articles
Sweet Corn/Squash
January 2008“Fresh from Florida” sweet corn is becoming more available year round, preliminary due to the development of new verities. Look for it in your grocery store produce section and at community farmers’ markets around the state. Florida sweet corn is sold both in and out of the husk and comes in three color types: yellow, white, and bicolor. The color of the corn doesn’t really change its flavor. All three color types should be equally crunchy, juicy, and sweet.
Sweet corn has plenty of complex carbohydrates to give you energy. It’s a good source of fiber, which helps lower blood cholesterol levels and keep the intestinal tract running smoothly. One medium ear has about 130 calories and is free of saturated fat. That same serving size supplies about 15 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C.
When shopping, look for corn in snug, moist, bright green husks. The corn should have a fresh scent and a tassel that is just slightly brown at the tip. Feel the kernels through the husk to check that they are firm, well developed, and arranged in tight rows. If the corn has already been shucked, the kernels will obviously be easier to examine. Make sure they are round and full and not indented.
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