what is dented corn

Dent corn, also called grain corn or field corn, is a type of corn characterized by a distinctive small indentation or "dent" at the crown of each kernel when it ripens. This dent forms because the center of the kernel contains softer starch that shrinks as the kernel dries, causing the dented appearance. The kernels are a mix of hard and soft starch, which makes dent corn starchier and less sweet than sweet corn. Dent corn is the most common type of corn grown in the United States and is primarily used for animal feed, industrial products such as ethanol and corn oil, and various food products that require processing. It is not typically eaten fresh off the cob because of its tough texture and less sweet flavor. Instead, it's used to produce cornmeal, corn chips, tortillas, grits, high fructose corn syrup, and corn- based snack foods. It also plays a major role in producing ethanol for fuel and is the main ingredient in Kentucky bourbon whiskey mash bills. In summary, dent corn is a versatile field corn variety important for animal feed, processed food ingredients, and industrial uses, rather than as fresh eating corn.