When you think of corn, the first thing you may think of is fresh sweet corn you eat on the cob, but the majority of corn grown in Illinois is actually field or dent corn and has a surprising presence during the holiday season. From traditional recipes to behind-the-scenes essentials, here are five ways corn plays a role at your Christmas table—and beyond.
1. Candy Canes
Candy canes have always been a staple for Christmas, but did you know corn plays a big role when it comes to making this delicious treat? Corn syrup is an important ingredient to make candy canes just right. Take on a challenge over the holiday break and use corn syrup to make some candy canes of your own!
2. Christmas Tree Ornaments
The holiday season can get expensive, especially when all the little extras start to add up. Instead of spending money on Christmas tree ornaments, why not create your own? With just cornstarch and a little creativity, you can craft unique, personalized ornaments that add a special touch to your tree.
3. Holiday Travel
If you're hitting the road for this holiday season, corn is fueling your journey. Ethanol, a renewable fuel made from corn, is blended into gasoline. This sustainable option helps reduce emissions and keep holiday travel a little greener. Don’t forget that corn is also used to make your tires.Cornstarch is added to tire molds before pouring the rubber to prevent sticking.
4. The Dinner Centerpiece
Having steak, ham or turkey as your main course this holiday? Guess what they all eat? Corn and corn by-products like dried distillers grain (ddgs) that are high in protein.
5. Holiday Clean-Up
After the holiday feasting comes the clean-up, and corn is there to help. Many hand soaps use cornstarch or corn oil as ingredients, providing moisturizing and cleansing properties. Corn-derived ethanol is also used in sanitizers, ensuring everyone stays healthy for the next family gathering.
From the food on your plate to the soap in your sink and the fuel in your car, corn has a way of making the holiday season brighter and more sustainable. So this Christmas, take a moment to appreciate the many ways this humble crop enhances your celebrations!
