Corn Grits
The corn grain is subjected to a process of cleaning, selection and germ extraction, where the hard part of the corn grain is obtained. Then, it will be subjected to a dry grinding process to obtain corn crystals with low levels of fat and optimal for human consumption. The granulometry of the product can be adjusted according to the customer's requirements.
Industry Applications
1. Food Industry
- Breakfast Cereals and Snacks: Corn grits are used as a base for breakfast cereals and snacks like corn chips, popcorn, and puffed snacks. The coarse texture adds crunch and flavour to these products.
- Cornmeal Products: Used in making various traditional food items such as cornbread, muffins, and pancakes.
- Breads and Baked Goods: Used in the formulation of gluten-free breads and other bakery products due to its grainy texture and ability to retain moisture.
2. Animal Feed Industry
- Livestock Feed: Corn grits are a major ingredient in animal feed, providing a rich energy source for livestock such as poultry, cattle, and swine.
- Pet Food: The coarse texture and nutrient profile of corn grits are also used in pet food formulations, particularly for dogs and cats.
- Aquaculture: Corn grits are sometimes included in fish feed for aquaculture, offering a cost-effective energy source.
3. Biofuel and Energy Production
- Ethanol Production: Corn grits are a primary feedstock in the production of bioethanol. The starches in corn grits are fermented to produce ethanol, a renewable energy source.
- Biogas: Residual corn grits and other by-products from bioethanol production are used in anaerobic digestion systems to generate biogas.
4. Food Processing and Ingredients
- Corn Starch and Syrup: The starch in corn grits can be extracted to create corn syrup, glucose, and other sweeteners used in a wide range of processed food products.
- Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP): Corn grits are processed into TVP, which is used as a meat substitute in vegetarian and plant-based food products.
5. Industrial Applications
- Corn Oil Extraction: Corn grits are sometimes used as a secondary feedstock in the extraction of corn oil, which is used for cooking and industrial purposes.
- Biodegradable Plastics: The starch from corn grits can be converted into biodegradable plastics, contributing to sustainable packaging solutions.
- Paper Industry: Corn grits and their by-products can be used in the production of adhesives and coatings for the paper industry.
6. Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Industry
- Binders in Tablets: Corn grits' starch content makes them suitable as a binder in pharmaceutical tablet formulations.
- Dietary Supplements: Used in the production of some health supplements, corn grits provide essential nutrients like fiber and are often included in fiber supplements.
7. Cosmetic Industry
- Skin Care Products: Corn grits are used in some skincare products as a natural exfoliant due to their coarse texture.
- Cosmetic Powders: Ground corn grits may also be used in the formulation of face powders and other cosmetic products.
8. Animal Bedding
- Absorbent Material:Corn grits can be used in the manufacturing of biodegradable animal bedding materials, particularly for poultry and small animals.