Uses of Corn

With more than 4,200 uses, corn is used in a myriad of products we use on a regular basis. From traditional uses such as feed and food, to the new arenas of ethanol and bioplastics, corn is a vital part of our way of life. See what can be done with just one bushel of corn!

Corn for Feed

Although there are an increasing number of uses for corn, feeding livestock remains the primary use for American corn. Approximately 96 percent of corn produced in Texas is used for livestock feed. Nationally, livestock and poultry directly consume approximately 40 percent of the country's corn crop - in addition to a significant amount of corn co-products such as distillers grains. Corn-fed animals gain weight quickly from corn's high-starch, high-energy content, making corn and distillers grains a preferred choice of feedlot operators. Additionally, corn improves the yield from dairy cows and reduces the amount of land needed to support their feed requirements.

Corn for Food

When was the last time you ate corn? Think carefully, corn is used as much more than just a tasty, vegetable side dish! According to the Corn Refiners Assocation, nearly 4,000 food items in your grocery store contain corn ingredients - and that doesn't include the products that come from corn-fed animals or the sweet, whole-kernel corn that's available on the cob, in cans or frozen. While sweet corn only accounts for approximately 1 percent of corn production in the United States, 10 percent of field corn is processed for food ingredients. (Learn more about the types of corn) This processed corn is used in a variety of foods from peanut butter and jelly to cake and ice cream! It's safe to say that every time you sit down for a meal, corn is on the table.

Corn for Fuel

Domestic ethanol producers are turning corn into environmentally friendly, renewable fuel. This clean-burning, high-octane fuel contributes to the country's energy independence. (Learn more about ethanol)

Corn for Industrial Uses

Corn can be found in a number of industrial applications such as bioplastics and fabrics. Because of advances in technology, you can find corn in a number of items, including crayons, compostable tableware, food containers, bedding, shirts and carpet. Learn more about the unexpected products you can find corn in by visiting the Corn Refiners Association website.