Mineral Content of Corn: Phosphorus, Calcium, and Key Nutrients in Cereal Grains
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The 1.5–2% of mineral matter in corn breaks down into several specific elements found in its ash. Knowing which ones they are helps explain the grain's nutritional profile.
The minerals in corn, calculated per dry weight of the grain, are distributed as follows:
- Potassium salts — 0.4%
- Magnesium salts — 0.16%
- Sodium salts — 0.05%
- Calcium salts — 0.02%
Corn stands out as a record-holder for phosphorus, another vital element. On this measure it surpasses the other common cereal grains.
Phosphorus salts make up an average of 0.43% of corn grain (on a dry-weight basis) — more than is found in wheat, rye, rice and other cereals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What minerals are found in corn?
Corn contains roughly 1.5-2% mineral substances, including magnesium salts (0.16%), sodium salts (0.05%), potassium salts (0.4%), calcium (0.02%), and phosphorus salts (0.43%), all calculated on the dry weight of the grain.
How much phosphorus is in corn?
Corn contains about 0.43% phosphorus salts on a dry-weight basis, which is more than wheat, rye, rice, and other cereals, making corn a record-holder for phosphorus content among grains.
Does corn have a lot of calcium?
No. Corn is relatively low in calcium, containing only about 0.02% on a dry-weight basis. This is 2.5 times less than wheat and 6 times less than rye.
How does corn's mineral content compare to wheat and rye?
Corn has less calcium than both wheat and rye, but it surpasses them in phosphorus content. For phosphorus, corn leads over wheat, rye, rice, and other cereal grains.
Why is phosphorus in corn important?
Phosphorus is a vitally necessary element for the body. Corn provides a high level of phosphorus salts, around 0.43% of dry weight, making it a valuable dietary source of this essential mineral.
What percentage of corn is mineral matter?
Mineral substances make up approximately 1.5-2% of corn, found in its ash and including potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, and sodium salts.
