Corn: The Most Useful Material For Modified Starch Production

1. Corn: The Most Useful Material For Modified Starch Production For many years now, corn has been an integral part of starch extraction. Compared to any other plants, corn is naturally blessed with adequate capacity to effectively convert a large amount of solar energy to chemical energy. It is this energy that is stored as oil, cellulose, and most importantly starch in the corn plant and kernel. In the battle between corn and wheat, corn is hailed to be one of nature’s biggest multipliers. Do you know why? After planting for four months approximately, a single corn kernel that weighs only one-hundredth of an ounce produces around 800 kernels. On the other hand, wheat accounts for 50-fold yield per seed planted. Moreover, corn has nearly 70-75% starch present that makes it the most valuable raw material for the modified starch production process. What is modified corn starch? Starch is essentially a carbohydrate molecule that resembles the shape of a long chain. This naturally present starch in the corn undergoes procedures to alter its chemical, physical and enzymatic properties. After modifying, the starch is used in food products as an emulsifier, thickening agent, and as a disintegrant in pharmaceutical products. Why is there a high demand for modified corn starch production? One cannot deny or overlook the increasing importance of consuming pre-cooked foods. Likewise, paper and textile industries are largely dependent on corn starch production. Consequently, this has led to a surge in the sales of corn starch worldwide. Cost-effective prices and as a more appropriate alternative for sweeteners and chemical agents, are the two vital reasons that have ensued the demand for starch production. Purpose of modifying corn starch Modified starch production aims to enhance their efficiency and make them conducive for various applications. And modifying corn starch is not an exception. Corn starch is modified for the following purposes:

2. To enhance their resistance against extreme heat, cooling, acid, etc. • To alter their density/viscosity To extend or shorten the time taken for gelatinization • • Corn starch is modified in two ways: 1.Oxidation: Oxidized corn starch is prepared through a semi-dry process and hydrogen peroxide is used as an oxidant. The properties of the starch are modified with the help of oxidizing agents like potassium permanganate, sodium hypochlorite and chlorine. 2.Acid modification: As the name suggests, the starch is modified using acids, mainly hydrochloric acid. Acid-modified starches are widely used in textile, food and paper industries. The starch is first heated in water and then processed with a mild acid. Once it attains the desired state, the starch is neutralized. Finally, it is filtered, washed and dried for further utilization. Foods containing modified corn starch, are they gluten-free? Unlike wheat, rye or barley that contain gluten grains, the good news is pure corn starch comes free of gluten. However, not all cornstarch brands are gluten-free. The main reason responsible for this is because manufacturers do not take the right steps to prevent gluten-cross contamination. But if the manufacturer avails modified starch production in Australia or elsewhere, get ready to stumble upon some healthy and safe gluten-free products in the market. Conclusion: Various starch market studies have already revealed that corn starch has occupied a place of significance in diverse industries. And should you avail the latest modified starch production procedures, congratulations! You are a valuable contributor in the thriving gluten- free industry.

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