Maize

Overview

Country Production

Cultivation

Health Benefits

What is Maize?

Maize, also known as corn in North American English, scientifically known as Zea mays, is a cereal grain that holds a significant place in global agriculture and human consumption. It is a tall, annual plant that belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. Maize has a distinct appearance with its sturdy stalks that can grow to impressive heights, reaching up to 3 meters (10 feet) or more. The plant produces large, elongated ears that contain rows of edible kernels, which are the primary part of the plant consumed by humans and animals.

Maize is thought to have originated in Mesoamerica and has a long history dating back thousands of years. It has been cultivated by indigenous peoples for various purposes, including as a staple food crop. Over time, maize cultivation spread throughout the Americas and eventually reached other parts of the world through exploration and trade.

One of the notable features of maize is its remarkable adaptability to different climates and growing conditions. It can be cultivated in a wide range of environments, from temperate to tropical regions, making it one of the most widely grown crops globally. Maize is highly valued for its versatility, as it serves as a raw material in numerous industries, including food, animal feed, biofuels, and manufacturing.

The cultivation and utilization of maize have had a profound impact on societies and economies worldwide. It plays a vital role in food security, providing a significant source of calories and nutrients for millions of people. Furthermore, maize by-products are utilized in various industries, such as producing cornstarch, corn oil, and even biodegradable plastics. Its importance as a staple crop and industrial resource has made maize an integral part of global agriculture and economic systems.

Maize Production in the World

The global production of Maize plays a significant role in agriculture and trade. As of 2023, United States is the top producer, contributing 389,694,460 tonnes, which accounts for 31.39% of the total global production. China ranks second, producing 288,842,300 tonnes, representing 23.26% of the world's output. Other significant producers include Brazil, Argentina, and India, with production levels of 131,950,246, 41,409,448, and 38,085,256 tonnes, respectively. Djibouti has the lowest production among the listed countries, contributing just 17 tonnes in 2023. In total, global production of Maize reached approximately 1,241,557,807 tonnes in 2023.

Top 10 Countries by Maize Production in 2023

Countries Ranked by Maize Production in 2023

Source:FAOSTAT
Last Updated: 23 Jan 2025

Rank	Country	Production (Tonnes)	Acreage (Hectare)	Yield
1	United States	389,694,460	35,010,950	11,131
2	China	288,842,300	44,218,900	6,532
3	Brazil	131,950,246	22,316,340	5,913
4	Argentina	41,409,448	8,104,641	5,109
5	India	38,085,256	10,743,603	3,545
6	Ukraine	31,030,440	3,975,200	7,806
7	Mexico	27,549,918	6,436,120	4,281
8	Indonesia	19,985,653	2,476,091	8,072
9	Russia	16,600,000	2,400,000	6,917
10	South Africa	16,430,000	2,586,100	6,353
11	Canada	15,075,930	1,518,900	9,926
12	France	12,834,600	1,314,680	9,763
13	Nigeria	11,053,000	5,700,000	1,939
14	Ethiopia	10,000,000	2,550,000	3,922
15	Pakistan	9,847,224	1,641,419	5,999
16	Turkiye	9,000,000	958,017	9,394
17	Poland	8,981,890	1,255,630	7,153
18	Romania	8,744,000	2,196,110	3,982
19	Philippines	8,405,004	2,541,028	3,308
20	Tanzania	8,010,949	4,200,000	1,907
21	Egypt	7,130,000	950,000	7,505
22	Serbia	6,630,984	922,980	7,184
23	Hungary	6,242,410	770,690	8,100
24	Italy	5,348,700	498,450	10,731
25	Thailand	4,954,166	1,066,791	4,644
26	Bangladesh	4,592,507	496,882	9,243
27	Germany	4,498,900	466,400	9,646
28	Paraguay	4,491,550	884,800	5,076
29	Vietnam	4,437,219	880,209	5,041
30	Kenya	4,285,206	2,430,014	1,763
31	Ghana	3,619,000	1,300,000	2,784
32	Malawi	3,510,000	1,790,000	1,961
33	Mali	3,386,941	1,509,160	2,244
34	Zambia	3,261,686	1,418,369	2,300
35	Angola	3,214,698	2,796,510	1,150
36	Nepal	2,976,490	940,256	3,166
37	Spain	2,835,360	239,900	11,819
38	Uganda	2,800,000	1,100,000	2,546
39	Bulgaria	2,448,780	534,640	4,580
40	Democratic Republic of the Congo	2,335,599	3,028,240	771
41	North Korea	2,300,000	585,000	3,932
42	Myanmar	2,200,000	566,261	3,885
43	Cameroon	2,200,000	1,200,000	1,833
44	Mozambique	2,124,749	2,688,164	790
45	Austria	2,105,060	212,000	9,930
46	Guatemala	2,075,661	1,155,601	1,796
47	Benin	2,059,254	2,075,990	992
48	Burkina Faso	1,995,359	1,219,167	1,637
49	Croatia	1,991,270	269,090	7,400
50	Colombia	1,949,538	473,192	4,120
51	Peru	1,640,374	452,924	3,622
52	Cambodia	1,480,000	263,000	5,627
53	Greece	1,416,690	130,560	10,851
54	Ecuador	1,413,382	321,229	4,400
55	Moldova	1,351,477	481,855	2,805
56	Venezuela	1,350,000	310,000	4,355
57	Bolivia	1,257,459	469,747	2,677
58	Cote d'Ivoire	1,223,000	540,000	2,265
59	Kazakhstan	1,189,083	190,376	6,246
60	Slovakia	1,105,660	138,450	7,986
61	Togo	1,013,000	807,617	1,254
62	Belarus	1,000,000	180,000	5,556
63	Guinea	982,000	650,000	1,511
64	Senegal	929,000	275,000	3,378
65	Kyrgyzstan	799,936	112,559	7,107
66	Uzbekistan	781,414	61,355	12,736
67	El Salvador	770,000	257,122	2,995
68	Portugal	767,210	75,390	10,177
69	Honduras	722,696	382,516	1,889
70	Bosnia and Herzegovina	698,289	100,185	6,970
71	Zimbabwe	634,699	869,536	730
72	Burundi	585,625	462,527	1,266
73	Syria	562,563	78,505	7,166
74	Chile	543,126	50,061	10,849
75	Iraq	538,251	88,812	6,061
76	Belgium	517,490	52,650	9,829
77	Rwanda	508,492	318,792	1,595
78	Czech Republic	507,540	64,370	7,885
79	Lao PDR	450,000	90,000	5,000
80	Albania	409,116	55,570	7,362
81	Slovenia	389,030	44,250	8,792
82	Australia	386,502	77,738	4,972
83	Afghanistan	363,000	127,000	2,858
84	Nicaragua	355,856	249,854	1,424
85	Chad	354,241	320,540	1,105
86	Iran	352,838	54,225	6,507
87	Azerbaijan	287,001	28,615	10,030
88	Madagascar	268,062	148,114	1,810
89	Uruguay	265,900	187,900	1,415
90	Taiwan	243,902	38,078	6,405
91	Sri Lanka	221,249	75,982	2,912
92	Central African Republic	220,815	276,019	800
93	Tajikistan	200,000	13,895	14,393
94	Georgia	190,900	72,400	2,637
95	Haiti	180,000	233,463	771
96	New Zealand	164,354	18,900	8,696
97	Panama	160,135	53,740	2,980
98	Cuba	160,000	95,000	1,684
99	Netherlands	151,930	14,800	10,266
100	South Sudan	141,000	141,063	1,000
101	Switzerland	135,314	15,674	8,633
102	North Macedonia	133,176	29,077	4,580
103	Lesotho	126,994	149,271	851
104	Belize	112,411	29,426	3,820
105	Namibia	105,609	58,276	1,812
106	Lithuania	91,330	11,260	8,111
107	South Korea	91,000	15,912	5,719
108	Eswatini	85,202	70,000	1,217
109	Timor-Leste	85,000	40,476	2,100
110	Dominican Republic	81,635	42,526	1,920
111	Somalia	75,000	100,000	750
112	Saudi Arabia	60,245	11,849	5,085
113	Morocco	60,094	84,140	714
114	Yemen	60,000	40,000	1,500
115	Israel	51,410	2,964	17,344
116	Gabon	46,376	29,678	1,563
117	Denmark	40,820	7,500	5,443
118	Botswana	32,740	53,729	609
119	Kuwait	26,220	1,441	18,202
120	The Gambia	26,000	35,000	743
121	Bhutan	25,118	6,937	3,621
122	Sierra Leone	25,000	15,000	1,667
123	Sudan	23,273	23,267	1,000
124	United Arab Emirates	22,014	945	23,307
125	Guinea-Bissau	21,000	15,000	1,400
126	Eritrea	20,000	20,000	1,000
127	Comoros	19,684	11,291	1,743
128	Sweden	15,700	1,970	7,970
129	Mauritania	15,000	20,000	750
130	Niger	14,392	16,533	871
131	Republic of the Congo	13,000	13,000	1,000
132	Papua New Guinea	12,912	2,369	5,451
133	Algeria	12,000	2,000	6,000
134	Costa Rica	7,321	3,923	1,866
135	Armenia	6,486	837	7,749
136	Trinidad and Tobago	5,000	3,000	1,667
137	Turkmenistan	4,393	2,021	2,174
138	Guyana	4,000	2,924	1,368
139	Libya	3,965	1,758	2,256
140	Lebanon	3,000	1,000	3,000
141	New Caledonia	2,902	275	10,564
142	Montenegro	2,682	588	4,565
143	Oman	2,438	483	5,052
144	Jamaica	2,291	2,009	1,140
145	Qatar	2,014	96	20,979
146	Fiji	2,006	337	5,952
147	Mauritius	1,502	129	11,643
148	Vanuatu	983	1,553	633
149	Luxembourg	950	170	5,588
150	Sao Tome and Principe	787	393	2,004
151	St. Vincent and the Grenadines	633	45	14,067
152	The Bahamas	616	82	7,550
153	Malaysia	568	233	2,435
154	Cabo Verde	464	20,190	23
155	Grenada	390	390	999
156	Puerto Rico	324	100	3,227
157	Dominica	193	115	1,682
158	Japan	167	62	2,681
159	Maldives	147	35	4,205
160	Micronesia	90	63	1,426
161	Antigua and Barbuda	46	22	2,061
162	Barbados	42	15	2,790
163	Suriname	29	5	5,344
164	Djibouti	17	9	2,021

Cultivation of Maize

The cultivation of maize involves a series of processes and techniques aimed at ensuring optimal growth and yield of the crop. Maize is typically cultivated as an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle within a single growing season.

Here is an overview of the cultivation practices involved:

Land Preparation: Before planting maize, the land needs to be prepared. This includes clearing the field of weeds, rocks, and other debris. Farmers may also plow or till the soil to loosen it and create a suitable seedbed for planting.
Planting: Maize is commonly propagated through seeds. Farmers plant the seeds either directly in the field or in nurseries for later transplanting. The seeds are sown at a specific depth and spacing, usually in rows, to allow sufficient space for the plants to grow and develop.
Crop Care: Maize requires proper care throughout its growth cycle. This includes activities such as watering, fertilizing, and controlling weeds, pests, and diseases. Irrigation is crucial, especially during dry periods, to ensure adequate moisture for the plants' growth. Fertilizers, both organic and synthetic, are often applied to provide essential nutrients to the crop.
Harvesting: The harvesting of maize occurs when the ears have achieved maturity and the kernels have fully developed. It is crucial to time the harvest appropriately since harvesting too soon may yield immature kernels while delaying it can risk crop loss due to adverse weather conditions or pest infestation. Maize is commonly harvested either manually by farmers or through the utilization of mechanical equipment like combines.

It is important to note that the cultivation practices can vary depending on the specific agro-climatic conditions, farming methods, and desired outcomes. Farmers often employ their expertise and local knowledge to adapt these practices to their specific contexts, ensuring successful maize cultivation.

Health Benefits of Maize

Maize, also known as corn, offers several health benefits due to its nutrient content. Here are some of the health benefits associated with consuming maize:

Rich in Dietary Fiber: Maize is a good source of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Dietary fiber aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system by promoting regular bowel movements, preventing constipation, and reducing the risk of digestive disorders like diverticulosis. It also helps control blood sugar levels, improves satiety, and supports weight management.
Provides Energy: Maize is a carbohydrate-rich grain, making it an excellent source of energy. The complex carbohydrates in maize provide a sustained release of energy, helping to fuel the body and maintain energy levels throughout the day.
Contains Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Maize is a decent source of various vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin B-complex, including thiamine (B1), niacin (B3), and folate (B9), which are essential for energy production, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells. Maize also provides minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, which play vital roles in maintaining healthy bones, nerve function, and electrolyte balance.
Antioxidant Properties: Maize contains antioxidants such as zeaxanthin and lutein, which are carotenoids that contribute to eye health. These antioxidants help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

It's important to note that the health benefits of maize are primarily derived from consuming it in its whole, unprocessed form. Processing methods, such as refining maize into cornmeal or high-sugar corn syrups, can diminish its nutritional value. Additionally, individual dietary needs and overall dietary patterns should be considered when incorporating maize into a balanced diet for optimal health benefits.

Nutritional Information of Maize

The nutritional composition of maize (corn) per 100 grams can vary slightly depending on the variety and cooking methods.

Here is a general overview of the approximate nutritional values for raw yellow maize:

Calories: 86 kcal
Carbohydrates: 18.7 grams
Protein: 3.4 grams
Fat: 1.2 grams
Calcium: 266 milligrams
Vitamin C: 6.8 milligrams
Thiamin (B1): 0.2 milligrams
Niacin (B3): 1.7 milligrams
Folate (B9): 42 micrograms
Potassium: 270 milligrams
Phosphorus: 89 milligrams
Magnesium: 37 milligrams
Iron: 0.5 milligrams
Zinc: 0.5 milligrams

It's worth noting that the nutritional profile of maize can be influenced by factors such as cooking methods, additional ingredients, and variations in maize varieties. Also, different colored maize varieties, such as white or blue, may have slightly different nutrient compositions.

Regional Variety of Maize

Maize (corn) exhibits regional variations in terms of varieties grown and their specific uses. Here are some examples of regional maize varieties and their respective uses:

Nixtamal Corn (Mexico and Central America): Nixtamal corn, also known as flint corn, is a type of maize commonly grown in Mexico and Central America. It is primarily used for the production of traditional corn-based foods, such as tortillas, tamales, and masa (corn dough). Nixtamal corn undergoes a process called nixtamalization, where the kernels are soaked and cooked in an alkaline solution, resulting in improved flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
Dent Corn (United States and North America): Dent corn is the predominant type of maize grown in the United States and North America. It is primarily used as livestock feed, providing a source of energy and nutrition for animals. Dent corn is also utilized in the production of cornmeal, corn flour, corn syrup, and corn oil. It serves as a vital ingredient in various food products, including snacks, cereals, and processed foods.
Waxy Corn (East Asia): Waxy corn, often cultivated in East Asia, is characterized by its high amylopectin starch content. It is valued for its sticky and smooth texture when cooked, making it ideal for certain traditional dishes, such as mochi (glutinous rice cakes) and dumplings. Waxy corn is also used in the production of starch-based products, thickeners, and as a sweetener in some East Asian cuisines.
Blue Corn (Southwestern United States and Mexico): Blue corn is a variety of maize that is notable for its dark blue or purple kernels. It is commonly grown in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Blue cornmeal and blue corn flour are produced from this variety and used to make traditional foods like blue corn tortillas, blue cornbread, and other baked goods. Blue corn is also valued for its antioxidant properties due to the presence of anthocyanins.
Baby Corn (Southeast Asia): Baby corn refers to the immature ears of maize that are harvested before they fully develop. It is a popular vegetable in Southeast Asian cuisine, where it is used in stir-fries, salads, and various dishes. Baby corn is prized for its tender texture and delicate flavor.

These are just a few examples of regional maize varieties and their associated uses. Local climates, cultural practices, and culinary traditions contribute to the development of distinct maize varieties with specific applications in different parts of the world.

Structure of Maize

The structure of maize (Zea mays) consists of various components that contribute to the plant's growth, reproduction, and eventual formation of edible kernels.

Here is an overview of the key structural features of maize:

Roots: Maize plants have a fibrous root system that develops underground. The roots serve to anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water and nutrients from the surrounding soil.
Stalks: The main above-ground structure of maize is its tall and sturdy stalks. The stalks are cylindrical and consist of nodes (joints) and internodes (segments between the nodes). They provide support to the plant and transport water, nutrients, and carbohydrates between the roots and other parts of the plant.
Leaves: Maize has long, flat leaves that emerge from the stalk nodes. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stalk and have a prominent midrib running through the center. They play a crucial role in photosynthesis, converting sunlight into energy for the plant.
Tassel: At the top of the maize plant, there is a reproductive structure called the tassel. The tassel consists of multiple branches that bear small flowers known as florets. These flowers produce pollen, which is necessary for pollination and the development of maize kernels.
Ears: The maize ears are the reproductive structures responsible for producing the kernels. They emerge from the leaf axils on the main stalk. Each ear consists of a central cob, which is the thickened stem, surrounded by husks. The cob is covered with rows of tightly packed, elongated structures called kernels.
Kernels: The kernels are the mature seeds of the maize plant. They are usually yellow, but can also be white, red, blue, or other colors, depending on the maize variety. Each kernel consists of a protective outer layer (pericarp) and an inner endosperm, which is the starchy part of the seed. The endosperm is the part that is primarily consumed by humans and animals.

These structural components work together to support the growth, reproduction, and development of maize, making it one of the most important cereal crops in the world.

Types of Maize

There are various types of maize (corn), each with its characteristics and uses. Here are some common types of maize:

Dent Corn: Dent corn, commonly referred to as field corn, holds the distinction of being the most extensively cultivated maize variety. Its name originates from the characteristic indentation or "dent" that forms at the crown of each kernel during maturity. Dent corn serves multiple purposes, including animal feed, industrial applications such as ethanol production, and as a valuable source of cornmeal and corn flour.
Sweet Corn: Sweet corn is the type of maize that is harvested when the kernels are immature and in their "milky" stage. It is known for its sweet and tender taste, making it a popular choice for human consumption. Sweet corn is commonly eaten as a vegetable, either boiled, grilled, or included in various dishes.
Popcorn: Popcorn, a distinct variety of maize, possesses a tough outer shell and a starchy inner composition. As the kernel is heated, the moisture contained within transforms into steam, resulting in the kernel bursting open and transforming into light, fluffy popcorn. This delectable snack is commonly enjoyed in a multitude of flavors and presentations.
Flint Corn: Flint corn, also called Indian corn or calico corn, is characterized by its hard, colorful outer layer and varying kernel shapes. It is often used for decorative purposes, such as fall decorations and crafts. Flint corn is also ground into cornmeal and used in traditional dishes like polenta.
Flour Corn: Flour corn, also referred to as soft corn, contains a generous amount of starch and possesses a tender, powdery endosperm. It is commonly milled into fine corn flour or cornmeal, which finds extensive use in baking and culinary applications. Flour corn is frequently employed in the creation of tortillas, cornbread, and a variety of other corn-derived delicacies.
Pod Corn: Pod corn is a unique type of maize that produces elongated, pod-like structures instead of typical ears. The pods contain a combination of kernels and husks. Pod corn is primarily used for ornamental purposes and is not commonly consumed as food.

These are just a few examples of the different types of maize. Each type has distinct characteristics that make them suitable for specific purposes, whether it's feeding livestock, human consumption, or decorative applications.

Uses of Maize

Maize (corn) has a wide range of uses and is an incredibly versatile crop. Here are some of the common uses of maize:

Food Consumption: Maize is a staple food for many people around the world. It is consumed in various forms, including fresh sweet corn, cornmeal, corn flour, cornflakes, popcorn, and corn oil. Maize-based products are used in a variety of dishes, such as tortillas, tacos, cornbread, polenta, cereals, and snacks.
Animal Feed: Maize is a crucial ingredient in animal feed, particularly for poultry, cattle, pigs, and other livestock. Its high carbohydrate and energy content make it a valuable source of nutrition for animals, supporting their growth, reproduction, and overall health.
Industrial Applications: Maize is utilized in numerous industrial applications. It is a primary source of starch, which is extracted and used in the production of various products such as sweeteners, syrups, adhesives, and bioplastics. Corn oil, derived from maize, is used in cooking, food processing, and as a feedstock for biodiesel production.
Biofuel Production: Maize serves as a feedstock for biofuel production, specifically ethanol. The starch in maize can be fermented to produce ethanol, which is used as a renewable fuel additive and an alternative to gasoline. Maize-based ethanol is widely used in the production of biofuels and as a component of gasoline blends.
Industrial Feedstock: Maize by-products, such as corn stalks, cobs, and husks, have industrial applications. They can be used as feedstock in the production of paper, cardboard, textiles, biofuels, biogas, and animal bedding.
Pharmaceutical and Medical Uses: Certain components of maize, such as corn silk, have been used in traditional medicine for their potential diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, maize is used in the production of pharmaceutical excipients and as a source of dietary fiber in various supplements.
Ornamental and Decorative Purposes: Certain types of maize, such as flint corn and decorative Indian corn, have gained popularity for their ornamental value. These varieties are frequently employed in fall-themed decorations, and crafts, and serve as vibrant additions for enhancing the color and texture of floral arrangements.

These are just a few examples of the diverse uses of maize. Its widespread cultivation and versatility have made it a significant crop with applications in agriculture, food production, industry, and other sectors.