Ethanol Blends in Fuel: High Octane, Low Emissions
January 14, 2025
Tara Desmond
In this enlightening interview, IL Corn sits down with Brian West to dive into the science and benefits of high-octane, low-carbon fuels like ethanol. Brian explains how octane plays a crucial role in engine performance and efficiency, shares fascinating insights from groundbreaking research, and discusses the potential of ethanol-blended fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing power and fuel economy. From Mini Coopers to F-150s, Brian highlights how higher ethanol blends can revolutionize transportation, all while supporting farmers and bolstering energy security. Join us as we explore the exciting potential of the Next Generation Fuels Act and its promise for a cleaner, more efficient future.

By Lindsay Croke
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June 30, 2025
When we think of Independence Day traditions, sweet corn on the cob is as iconic as fireworks and often even more central to the celebration. According to Instacart, purchases of sweet corn surge by 380% over the annual average heading into July 4th, outranking other grilling staples like baby back ribs and burgers. But corn's role in your Fourth of July celebration goes far beyond your plate. In Illinois alone, 8,300 acres of sweet corn are harvested annually, averaging 155 cwt per acre. That’s more than 128 million pounds of locally grown sweetness fueling summer cookouts across the state. And while sweet corn makes a big impression on the grill, most of Illinois’ corn crop isn’t sweet corn - it’s field corn. Less than 1% of the state’s crop is sweet corn, while the rest is used in products that are often invisible to consumers but vital to everyday life: fuel, packaging, fireworks, and even spirits.