Learn About Corn:
What types of corn are grown in Illinois?
How many gallons of ethanol do we get from one bushel of corn?
Illinois grows a lot of corn, where does it all go?
Click on the picture above to answer these questions and learn more!
Growing a Better Environment With Bioplastics
Plastic pollution from traditional, petroleum-based plastic has become a global problem. A better alternative is renewable corn-based bioplastics made from corn grown by local farm families. Learn more by clicking the picture above.
Use Corn To Make Your Own…
Biodegradable Plastic
1. Place a tablespoon of cornstarch in a plastic zipper-seal bag.
2. Add 2 drops of corn oil to the cornstarch.
3. Add 1 ½ tablespoons of water to the oil and cornstarch.
Seal the bag.
4. Mix the cornstarch, oil and water in the plastic bag by rubbing
the outside of the bag with your fingers.
5. Add 2 drops of your favorite food coloring to the mixture and
mix well. DO NOT completely seal the bag.
6. Place the bag in a microwave oven for 20 seconds on high.
Be careful. It will be hot.
• What happens to your plastic?
• Form your plastic into a ball while it is still warm and
describe what it does.
7. Record your scientific observations.
• What do you notice about your biodegradable plastic?
• Is your biodegradable plastic the same as your classmates’
plastic?
• What could you make with this biodegradable corn plastic
if you let it harden? Remember, it will dissolve.
• Compare your biodegradable plastic with the plastic
zipper-seal bag.
Corny Cornbread Muffins
Adding whole corn kernels (sweet corn) takes this nutritious cornbread to the next level of corny flavor!
Servings: 10-12 muffins
Ingredients
- 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup yellow cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup frozen or fresh sweet corn kernels
- 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) butter, melted and cooled
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a muffin pan with paper liners or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, break up the egg with a whisk. Whisk in the milk and sugar. Stir in sweet corn kernels. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk mixture and the melted butter to the dry ingredients. Whisk until just blended. Do not overmix. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops are set and golden.