Foodie Pundit

The Throwaway Part of Corn Is a Secret Superfood

Scientists just discovered a powerful new antioxidant called bandiflavone in baby corn silk, a common agricultural byproduct. This could change the future of fo

By Foodie Pundit Newsroom - Published - Updated - Section: Sustainability

corn photograph for this story

Key points

  • Scientists have discovered a new antioxidant compound, 'bandiflavone', in baby corn silk, a common agricultural waste product.
  • The new compound was found to be more than twice as potent as vitamin C in certain laboratory tests, highlighting its potential as a high-value nutritional ingredient.
  • This discovery could create new revenue streams for farmers and food processors by 'upcycling' a waste product into a valuable ingredient for functional foods, beverages, and dietary supplements.
  • The finding taps into growing consumer demand for sustainable, plant-based, and 'clean label' products, reframing food 'waste' as a valuable resource.

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