Use of corn starch in dairy products. History and geography of the product

Corn starch is a starch obtained from corn, sometimes also called corn flour. To obtain it, the endosperm - the white part of the corn grain - is ground to form a fine white powder. Apart from the fact that cornstarch is a carbohydrate, it has virtually no nutritional value, which has led to controversy over its usefulness.

Just like anything, using cornstarch has its pros and cons. There are many unique cooking and homemade options. medicines in which corn starch is used as an alternative traditional products. However, there are different opinions regarding its use, and some believe that it is a harmful and unnecessary additive to both food and cosmetics.

Some vitamin supplements contain cornstarch instead simple sugars. The reason for this is the fact that starch takes longer to break down and therefore provides the body with sugars for a longer time. The slow release of sugars helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, whereas consuming simple sugars can cause sudden spikes. This is especially important for those with diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Also, corn starch can serve as an alternative to other products and be used as a natural thickener in the preparation of various foods. It is gluten free Therefore, it often serves as a substitute for flour in recipes that require its addition. The question regarding the use of corn starch is whether its use as a flavoring agent a good solution when it comes to weight. Corn in any form contains substances known as phospholipids, which are derivatives of fat, and starch consists of huge amount molecules of glucose or sugar. And, as you know, starch and fat, according to research, contribute to weight gain.

Weight gain is the main problem with regular use corn starch.

Corn starch is said to be used to fatten domestic animals such as pigs and cattle before they are slaughtered. Considering that it is used as a thickener, weight gain may be a side effect. For some, gaining weight is a desirable goal, while for those who struggle with weight, weight gain is unnecessary and undesirable, regardless of any possible health benefits of starch.

There are other areas of activity in which corn starch can be useful due to some of its qualities. Since he naturally absorbs moisture, it can be used as an alternative to talc in various body powders. Talc has long been associated with some forms of cancer and diseases of the circulatory system. Since cornstarch is not associated with these health problems, it is often used as a substitute for talc and is considered preferable, especially in baby powders.

Corn starch is a white powder extracted from the cob of corn. Housewives add it to foods to hold ingredients together. Its thickening ability is lower than that of potato, but thanks to this additive, culinary products they turn out more tender and softer. The main direction in cooking, where it is often used, is baking bread and sweet confectionery. It is soluble in water, but does not form jelly-like clots.

Method of obtaining

Starch is formed as a result of the synthesis of corn under the influence of light - as a result of photosynthesis. It is a component of many plants, and serves as the main energy source for herbivores, including humans. Its main function is to accumulate energy in the plant.

To obtain white powder, corn seeds are poured with sulfurous acid and infused, after which they are crushed, the kernel is removed and ground - this is how starch is obtained. Using a centrifuge, it is separated from the protein, washed and dried. The slightly yellowish powder has the taste and aroma of corn.

Compound

Biochemical composition:

100% pure, unprocessed corn starch, consists of:

Carbohydrates.
Belkov.
Iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium, zinc, selenium and copper.
Fiber.
Vitamin PP (nicotinic acid).
Amino acids.

Minerals in the composition may differ in shade, acid content, purity - this is the reason for classifying the powder into grades:

Amylopectin, obtained from waxy varieties of cobs.
Higher.
First.

Having a minor nutritional value, it has a high calorie content (381 kcal), which is significantly higher than that of potato powder.

Is starch healthy?

The substance enters the body when consumed in foods of plant origin or as a supplement. This is a source rich in carbohydrates, which is very important for the functioning of the body. It stimulates increased muscle growth and has a positive effect on function nervous system. Carbohydrates in the structure plant food slow, they do not pose a danger to the body and do not raise blood sugar levels. When obtained through the consumption of products of plant origin, the threat of hypoglycemia and diseases associated with the functioning of the heart and blood vessels is reduced.
Amylopectin variety improves intestinal function. As a result of poor ability to be broken down by gastric juice enzymes, amylopectins enter the intestines, where they bind digestive products and remove them. They also prevent the absorption of cholesterol. By means of enzymes, it has the ability to break down into water and carbon dioxide, as a result of which the energy necessary for the full functioning of organs is generated.
Moreover, it supports immune system, takes part in the formation of organic acids, muscle mass. Prevents inflammatory processes in the body and nourishes nerve cells.
Corn starch has found its use in medicine. It is added as a component of ointments, mixtures, pastes, powders and cosmetic powders. As an auxiliary component it is included in the tablets.

The undeniable harm of starch

The main benefits of the substance were assessed during production industrial products nutrition. As a substance obtained artificially, it has no particular value for the body. The lack of dietary fiber and high calorie content in a small amount of powder contribute to the development of obesity. Accumulation of fat on internal organs, leads to serious disturbances in the functioning of the body.

Starch also harms people with individual intolerance to corn. By-effect manifests itself in the form of allergies, asthma, rashes on the skin. Prohibited for use in cases of high blood clotting and diseases of the digestive system.

Starch is not used as an independent component in food, but it is included in a large number of familiar to consumer basket products. It can be seen listed on the labels of ketchups, mayonnaise and other sauces, dairy products, some types of inexpensive sausages, and confectionery products. The main danger is that the amount in the recipe is too large. It is corn starch that gives the necessary consistency and viscosity. Accordingly, it is the source high content calories. In combination with sugars, salt and preservatives, the composition is not beneficial and has no relation to healthy eating. The only thing that can make it attractive is that it doesn’t affect the taste finished product and is gluten-free.

In cases where it concerns modified starch, you need to understand that it is not made from GMOs. The powder got its name due to the processing method, which has a positive effect on the quality of the final product. Compared to natural, it even has a slight advantage in calorie content (328 kcal), and it also contains less proteins and carbohydrates.

The area of application that does not cause trouble is cosmetology. The powder is widely used in this industry and has a number of useful properties:

Absorbent. It is for this reason that it is used to make deodorants and cosmetic powders.
Deodorizing.
Provides softness and silkiness, as it is an emollient.
Tightens pores.
Improves the functioning of the sebaceous glands.
Mattifying - eliminating oily shine.
Improves consistency cosmetics. Starch has the inherent property of imparting a light texture and preventing the formation of lumps.

It is used in the production of shampoos and hair care products, decorative and children's cosmetics, in the production of deodorants and talcs, and it is also found in perfumed powder.

Corn starch is universal, it is safe and easy to use, and it also combines well with various cosmetic elements. Homemade masks are prepared using this powder.

Suitable for household purposes, used for refreshing shoes, cleaning fur products, aroma stones and sachets.

Simple homemade beauty recipes

“Youth” mask. Corn starch (26 g) is mixed with milk (25 g), jasmine essential oil (0.07 g), honey (26 g), ginger oil (0.2 g), sea salt(26 g). Apply evenly to the surface of the facial skin using a massage technique. Leave for 15 minutes and wash off using the contrast method with running water.
Shampoo "Lavender". Lavender essential oil (1.2 g) is combined with baking soda (75 g), starch (26 g) is added. After mixing until smooth, apply with massaging movements to the scalp and hair along the entire length. They are combing. Excess is removed using a comb.
Deodorant. To obtain a homemade deodorant, combine starch, zinc oxide and various essential oils, pleasant to perceive.
Mask for oily skin. Mixing cornstarch, zinc oxide and spirulina creates a healing mask for oily skin. By adding sweet clover and violet powder to this mask, you can prepare a unique composition for nourishing and rejuvenating dry skin.

Corn starch is a white but not transparent powder (see photo). The taste and aroma of the product has much in common with corn. TO distinctive features Such starch can be attributed to the ability to quickly increase in size even in cool water. Starch is used in the meat and dairy, baking and confectionery industries. Vinegar and many alcoholic drinks are made from corn starch.

To obtain starch, corn kernels are placed in a solution of sulfurous acid, then crushed and the germ is isolated. After this, the resulting cereal is crushed again, which makes it possible to obtain starch milk. Starch and insoluble protein are separated in specialized centrifuges. To obtain ready-made starch, the powder should be thoroughly washed and dried.

How to select and store?

When choosing cornstarch, look at its consistency; it should not contain lumps, etc. The packaging should be complete and better transparent so that you can evaluate the type of starch. Cornstarch should be stored in a tightly closed container, as it loses its thickening properties when exposed to air.

Beneficial features

The benefits of corn starch are used in the production of various products that help cope with skin problems. The product activates the process of muscle tissue formation. Starch also improves the activity of nerve cells. Corn starch acts on the body as a choleretic and diuretic. The product also has the ability to reduce appetite and increase bile secretion. With regular consumption in limited quantities, you can notice a significant reduction in the amount of “bad” cholesterol.

In addition, corn starch has the ability to reduce sugar, which will be useful for people with diabetes.

Use in cooking potato version. It's included in the recipe various sauces and puddings. Creams and fillings for numerous baked goods are prepared on its basis.

How to make cornstarch at home?

To properly dilute corn starch, it is recommended to combine 1 teaspoon of the product and 1 tbsp. spoon of cold water. The resulting mixture must be thoroughly beaten and at the end of cooking combined with 1 tbsp. hot water. Stirring all the time, wait until it thickens, and then leave for another 1 minute. over heat to get rid of the starchy taste. From the proportions described above, you can prepare a small portion (about 1 tbsp.) of sauce or soup. You can change the quantity depending on your preferences.

Harm of corn starch and contraindications

Corn starch can cause harm to people with individual intolerance to the product. It is not recommended to consume foods with starch during periods of gastrointestinal problems, for example, with gastritis and heartburn. Because of high calorie content Obese people should control the amount of starch consumed. Abuse of the product can lead to metabolic disorders. People who are prone to increased blood clotting should avoid products with corn starch.

Corn starch is a corn-based by-product used in cooking and for traditional medicine. It is extracted by crushing grains previously soaked in sulfuric acid. If necessary, it can be replaced with corn flour, however, it is used much more often.

The benefits of corn starch

The benefits of such a product are very significant. It contains various fatty acids, potassium and calcium, sodium and magnesium, vitamin PP, alimentary fiber. Corn starch is actively used in preparing dishes for diabetics. Its use helps normalize blood sugar levels, because a significant amount of carbohydrates is broken down very slowly, which interferes with the release of sugars.

Diseases of blood vessels and heart;
High blood pressure;
Damages of the nervous system;
Inflammation of the gallbladder;
Urolithiasis;
Increased swelling;
Frequent urination and other diseases of the urinary system;
Anemia.

The product can be used as a supplement to regular products, and when preparing independent healing decoctions. The latter have a very beneficial effect on the immune system, promote muscle growth, strengthen and heal the body as a whole. Decoctions with corn starch are most often drunk by athletes when preparing for competitions.

Corn starch was also appreciated in home cosmetology. The product is used in homemade anti-aging masks; it not only gives them the necessary viscous structure, but also helps eliminate existing wrinkles and serves as a reliable prevention of their appearance in the future. Starch can also be used instead of cosmetic powder and talc.

Harm of corn starch

IN in some cases Consumption of corn starch should be significantly limited. So, for diseases such as heartburn, gastritis, and other pathologies gastrointestinal tract the product does not bring health benefits, but harm.

Among other things, starch should be completely abandoned in case of obesity, increased body weight and individual intolerance. Negative allergic reaction The body's reaction to the product is quite easy to determine; it manifests itself in skin rashes and itching. By the way, it occurs quite rarely, but it still occurs in some people.

Unfortunately, quite often corn starch is extracted from plants grown with pesticides. Such fertilizers negatively affect the quality of grains and the final product itself. Such flour or starch may be harmful to human health

Corn starch is a product that still causes heated debate among nutritionists, doctors and scientists regarding beneficial effect. Depending on the situation, it is obvious how it is beneficial features, and harm. Let's figure out what it is chemical composition corn starch, for which it is used in culinary and other fields and how to replace corn starch in case of contraindications.

From this article you will learn:

Corn starch: culinary uses

Corn starch is a white or light yellow powder, extracted from natural plant materials, very similar in aroma and taste to corn. It expands in volume when immersed in hot or cold water, however chemical properties however, remain unchanged. More than 90% consists of complex carbohydrate compounds. The remaining portion contains a very small amount of fats, proteins and ash substances.

To obtain this substance, corn grains are cleaned and soaked in sulfurous acid. In such an environment, the protein that binds starch dissolves and the latter is released. The grain soaked in this way goes through crushing and a centrifuge, where the protein undissolved in acid is separated. Next, the product is washed, dried and packaged.

A person, without even knowing it, is very dependent on the presence of starch in the diet. True, the use does not occur in pure form, but is found in most foods we eat. This compound, included in potatoes and many other cereals and root vegetables, occupies a significant part of the diet. This is a source of carbohydrates, that is, the energy the body needs to work. Its isolation from food occurs in the same way as in artificial conditions, only the acidic environment is created by the stomach.

Chemical composition

To determine and verify the characteristics of high-quality corn starch in Russia, the international GOST 32159-2013 “Corn starch. Are common technical specifications", also operating in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. In retail chains, it is recommended to select products manufactured in accordance with the requirements of this document.

According to the mentioned GOST, the product has the following indicators:

water content – 14-16%;
acidity – 20-25 cm 3;
protein content – 0.8-1%;
SO 2 content – 50 mg/kg;
impurities of other starches are unacceptable.

The composition also contains small inclusions of selenium, manganese, magnesium, sodium, zinc, phosphorus, copper and iron.

Modified starch

Many housewives, seeing the inscription “modified” on a package of starch in a store, try not to purchase such a product. This is argued by the fact that the manufacturer uses “chemistry” for production, therefore, such starch is harmful.

Modified corn starch is starch whose properties have been improved through chemical, physical and biochemical influences. And it is safe for health.

Today the scope of its application is very wide:

thickener for sauces, dressings, yoghurts, purees, creams, etc.;
emulsifier in spreads and margarine;
included in sausage products to bind moisture.

Modified starch (including corn starch) is often found in products that are not very popular with consumers - cheap sausages, fermented milk, confectionery products, sauces. In the composition it is designated by the well-known E*** (E1422, for example). In this sense, the hostility towards such a product is understandable - the sausage should contain meat, not starch and other fillers.

However for home use this powder is good. Corn starch jelly is equally good no matter what type of product is used to cook it. So, using modified corn starch at home is completely acceptable and safe.

Beneficial properties of corn starch

The main benefit of corn or any other starch for the body is energy supply. It consists of complex carbohydrates, which do not adversely affect the health of diabetics. The breakdown of these substances takes a long time, which is why glucose does not “jump” after consumption.

The use of starch from corn cobs is not prohibited, and even desirable for diseases of the kidneys, heart, blood vessels, gall bladder and reproductive system organs. It includes in the process of stabilizing the body in case of hypertension, anemia and severe swelling.

Recipes with cornstarch folk medicine:

To reduce pressure. Dilute 20 g of powder in ½ glass of water (~50%) and drink. Drink one serving per day on an empty stomach for two weeks.
From disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Pour 1 tbsp. ½ cup of boiling water, add a couple of drops of iodine and drink after cooling to an acceptable temperature.
For inflammation of the gallbladder. For 7-10 days, take 10 grams of a solution of 0.3 liters of water and 30 grams of powder three times a day.
Against bruises and bruises. Make a mixture from a spoon warm water and 2 tablespoons of starch. Apply a compress. Remove after drying and repeat after a few hours.

Cornstarch for face

Starch has a soothing, healing and nourishing effect on the skin, so it is often included in cosmetic products for rejuvenation and restoration. Before using it for this purpose, you should make sure that there is no severe skin damage, inflammation or allergic reactions.

Here are some recipes for homemade masks:

Botox effect. Mix a tablespoon of powder with 1/2 spoon olive oil and ½ fresh crushed tomato. Apply to the skin and leave for a quarter of an hour.
Smoothing out wrinkles. Mix 2 tbsp. spoons of warmed milk with 2 tsp. melted steamed honey, add a pinch of salt and 2 tsp. corn starch. Apply a thick layer to cleansed and steamed skin, and then massage a little with your fingertips. After 10 minutes, apply a second layer. Wash everything off after 15 minutes.
For acne. Protein one chicken egg mix with finely chopped oatmeal(2 tsp) and starch (2 tsp). After mixing thoroughly, apply to face for a third of an hour.
Against oily skin and blackheads. Mix the ground egg white with 2 tsp. starch and a spoon of butter tea tree. Keep on the skin for a quarter of an hour.
To moisturize and increase skin elasticity. Dissolve starch in ½ tbsp. cream. Mix the resulting mixture well with mashed one banana. Apply a thick layer to your face and rinse after 10 minutes.
To restore aging skin. Mix equal parts liquid honey, salt, starch and heated milk. Rub in circular movements for a couple of minutes, and then leave for a quarter of an hour.

Corn starch and potato starch: comparison

Starch synthesized from potatoes is the most common type in Russia of this product. The reason for its popularity is the availability and low cost of raw materials. However, you can often hear the statement that its corn counterpart is of better quality, and one should strive to use it in cooking.

So what is the difference between corn starch and potato starch, and why is one better than the other:

Color. Potato product It has a snow-white color, sometimes with a slight blue tint. Corn - white, white-golden.
Consistency to the touch. Corn starch can be confused with fine flour - it is silky and rolls in your hands. And from potatoes - “crisp”.
After dissolving in cool water and bringing the mixture to a boil, potato makes the liquid clear, but corn does not. In the first version, the jelly turns out to be thick, gelatinous, elastic, and in the second - liquid, smooth, easily flowing in a stream.

Thus, it makes sense to use corn starch in dishes that you don’t want to add weight to. These are biscuits, cream, jelly (it will be fluid and transparent). The potato analogue is necessary when thickness and stability are needed - sauces for hot dishes, thick jelly, persistent puddings.

Are cornstarch and cornmeal the same thing?

These are two similar, but different products. Their main difference is the method of production. Flour is ground from grains, and starch is drawn out. Therefore, about 72% of the mass in flour is carbohydrates, and the rest is water, ash, fiber and proteins. Starch is 90-99% carbohydrates. Recipes with cornstarch can sometimes be made successfully using flour and vice versa, but not in every situation.

How to replace cornstarch in baking

A problem can often arise when suitable product I don’t have it at hand, but there is an analogue. It is difficult to know whether it is suitable as a full-fledged alternative. This often occurs when a recipe for a particular baked goods calls for the use of corn starch. Many people think that they can replace corn starch with potato starch. This is partly true.

In this case, you need to find the proportion of reducing the volume of starch used. Potatoes in the same quantity will make confectionery and baked goods too viscous and dense. There can be no talk about any tenderness of desserts and biscuits here. It is usually recommended to halve the portion, although in special cases you need to find a more accurate ratio.

When preparing cheesecakes with cornstarch or cottage cheese casserole, you can replace the missing product with an equal amount of semolina. This cereal perfectly absorbs moisture and prevents juice from escaping. Confectioners recommend that if there is no alternative, do not look for it at all, but sift the flour several times additionally, and then add baking powder.

What else can you replace cornstarch in baking with:

Eggs at the rate of 1 piece instead of 2 tbsp. powder. The yolk is suitable as an alternative when preparing cake cream.
Coconut flakes. When baking fruit pies Without starch, the juice spreads easily. coconut flakes absorbs it well and holds it.
Gelatin. This substitute is best suited for confectionery products with delicate filling, like " Bird's milk" One of these products must be diluted in water, heated (but not boiled) and added to the recipe.
Agar-agar. Used in the same cases as gelatin. But the quantity should be 4 times less, since the gelling properties of this product are very strong.

Applications of corn starch in other fields

as a binder in pharmaceutical preparations;
added to gypsum mixtures, plaster, cement and other building materials;
a thick paste of corn starch is used in the textile industry, where it ensures the uniformity of flow necessary for high-quality weaving of threads in fabrics;
used in the production of paper for gluing and sizing;
used for coating paper and applying decorative coatings;
used in oxidizing apparatuses (pulp and paper production).

How you can use corn starch at home:

Sprinkle and then sweep the floor to get rid of squeaks (cracks and crevices will be filled).
You can try starch as dry shampoo: sprinkle it on your hair, massage it and comb it out with a comb. Also suitable for cleaning animals.
Mix cornstarch with food coloring and water you can make safe paints for children.
The omelette will become more fluffy if you add a little of this powder to it.
You can try starch as an underarm deodorant.
Sometimes this product helps remove grease stains. You need to sprinkle the stain, leave it for a third of an hour, and then rinse and vacuum.
Starch can reduce irritation to baby's skin when added to the bath.
The powder reduces irritation and pain from burns and insect bites.
Adding a spoonful of the product to 5-10 liters of water for washing windows will get rid of streaks.
Water-starch paste helps clean silver until it shines.
Old, moldy books should be sprinkled with starch and shaken out after a while.
The powder helps reduce bad smell from shoes.

Recipes with cornstarch

Corn starch cream

Delicious custard For cakes, pastries or biscuits it is very easy to prepare. Moreover, corn starch is much better suited for this purpose than potato starch, as it makes the cream lighter. By making this cream at home, you can enjoy real taste absolutely natural product.

To prepare you will need:

butter or cream – 200 g (150 ml);
chicken egg – 2-3 pcs.;
vanilla sugar– 1 tsp;
milk – 0.5 l;
corn starch - 2 tbsp;
granulated sugar – 200 grams (for a very sweet cream).

Cooking order:

Mix vanilla sugar, a little sand and milk in a saucepan. Boil the mixture, stirring constantly to make the cream more tender. After boiling, you need to remove and leave the liquid to infuse under the lid for 30 minutes.
Mix the remaining sugar and starch. Add eggs to them. The more dry mixture there is, the thicker the cream will be, so it is not necessary to use all the eggs.
Pour about a third of the hot infused milk into the egg-starch mixture in a stream, remembering to stir. The consistency of the resulting mixture should be uniform, bring it to that consistency.
Gradually add the rest of the milk and stir.
Pour the mixture into a saucepan and place on medium heat. Cook with constant stirring. As the mixture thickens, reduce the heat.
After boiling, the cream needs to be boiled for another 2 minutes and add butter or cream.
Remove from heat and place in refrigerator covered or with cling film. In a few hours the cream will be ready.

Cottage cheese casserole with cornstarch

Products:

low-fat cottage cheese – 0.5 kg;
egg – 4 pcs.;
sour cream – 2 tbsp;
granulated sugar – 7 tbsp;
butter – 20 g;
corn starch - 2 tbsp;
cinnamon, raisins, vanillin, etc.

Preparation:

Beat the egg whites, adding a pinch of salt.
Beat the cottage cheese (with a mixer at low speed) with sugar, starch and yolks.
Lightly beat the egg whites again and pour into the cottage cheese.
Add raisins, vanilla, cinnamon or similar for flavor.
Pour the mixture brought to homogeneity into a baking dish, previously coated with a piece of butter.
Bake for 30-40 minutes at 180˚C.

Pancakes with cornstarch

Products:

2 eggs;
200 g starch;
2 tbsp. olive oil;
2 tbsp. Sahara;
400 ml milk;
lard - for lubrication.

Preparation:

Combine eggs with granulated sugar and beat until foamy. For a dish with a salty filling, you need to salt the liquid, and for a sweet filling, do not use salt.
Gradually add starch while stirring the mixture. The result will be a fairly thick and dense slurry.
Dilute the base with milk, also stirring during the pouring process.
Just before frying, add the oil and mix thoroughly.

Corn starch porcelain

From this product you can make cold porcelain, perfect for home modeling.

Mix 2 tablespoons of powder with a spoon of Vaseline oil (can be replaced with Johnson's Baby oil). Add glycerin (2-3 drops).
Grind the ingredients, add baking soda on the tip of a teaspoon, stir.
Add two spoons of PVA glue.
Stir until smooth. If the mixture turns out to be too thick, you need to add a little more glue.
Knead the mixture in your hand until you obtain a homogeneous white plastic substance. The porcelain is ready.

To store cold porcelain, it is better to wrap it in cling film, lubricated thick cream for hands.

Corn starch: contraindications

Photo: corn starch

Apart from the individual negative reaction of the body, this product has almost no contraindications. It should be used with caution in case of overweight, obesity, thrombophlebitis, gastrointestinal diseases and high blood clotting. Abuse of starch is fraught with improper metabolism. Allergy to the product manifests itself in the form of skin reactions (peeling, itching, redness, urticaria) and asthmatic attacks.