So Just Where IS the Corn?

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, corn slips through the cracks of our glass bubbles and into our diets. And despite our best detective work, we're hard put to track down just where that corn slipped in.

Did the ingredients of some normal dietary staple change? A new supplier for the cereal grain? Did our vitamin supplier switch the source of something? Was it that whiff of popcorn that we raced past at the mall? Did we remember to scrutinize each new package for the dreaded words "New and improved"? (Which most of us by now have learned means "Now fortified with CORN")

Of course, when the inevitable "corning" occurs, it's important to scrutinize labels and contact suspect companies. After determining that the spices are safe, no ingredients now come with their own "hypoallergenic" corny contents, and that there just isn't any noticable change in the ingredient lists, it's time to think outside the box.

Like the Corn Growers. Who stepped outside the box, looked at it and said "Ah, ha!"

Sometimes, it's possible for corn to be in the package itself. In fact, with the increasing awareness of environmental responsibility and a strong consumer desire for "green" packaging, plastic derived from corn starches is becoming a very popular choice for producers.

NatureWorks has been hard at work developing disposable food packaging that is "safe" for the environment. Basically, corn sugars are isolated and fermented to create a durable, but compostable, plastic resin that can be used for anything from deli trays to coffee cups. It can be heat sealed, and withstand significant temerature changes. And, of course, it's made from everyone's favorite hypo-allergenic (not) corn.

Whether these new packages are really a problem for corn allergic individuals will remain a mystery to the medical industry until studies, good studies, are done. And unfortunately, since funding for studies that will help to understand and define corn allergies and reactions in general is lacking, my hopes aren't especially high. The benefits of environmentally friendly, renewable resources sound very tempting. Except that I, personally, am acquainted with the threats that lie within the supply.

So watch out...and then next time that you get "corned" from mysterious sources, check the water bottle, the meat tray, the cheese wrap and the produce baskets. For us, that enviro-friendly decal is about as friendly as a Jolly Roger flag.

Where's the Corn in Flour?

It's no news to people with gluten sensitivity; that white flour was crushed from the wheat plant not from the stalk of the mysterious "white". (Regardless of puzzled wait staff's insistence to the contrary)
But if it comes from wheat, not corn, then where, exactly, is the corn?

The corn can come from a couple of places. For one, when you're dealing with grains and milling equipment, there is a high risk of cross contamination. If you've ever turned on a mixer too early, you know how easily flour gets airborne. Those particles can settle anywhere and everywhere, and they are hard to completely eradicate. Cornstarch is the same way, and if the milling equipment is used to process corn; well, there's bound to be a bit of cornstarch in your flour regardless of what the label reads.

Another distinct possibility falls under the heading of "enriched". The goal of the FDA was to make sure that when they stripped away all of the nutrition found in the hull of the wheat (you know, the "whole" in whole wheat, the part that makes it chewy.) they put some back. I've heard it described as cashing in a dollar for a shiny quarter. Sure, it's shiny and fits nicely into the newspaper stand. But, it's only a quarter.

Anyways...Those vitamins that replenish some of the lost nutrients have to come from somewhere. And some of them are derived from corn. They also need to have someway of being transferred from point A to point B and nicely measured out into the flour. For many vitamins, the best carrier seems to be with corn derivatives such as dextrose and corn starch.

So, when you see the words "enriched" be aware: Those aren't just vitamins. They're corn in disguise!

Endocrine disruptors

Corn is a known endocrine disruptor, and the effects on humans who ingest as much corn as the normal American citizen ingests are chiefly unknown.

However, recently the EPA has decided to evaluate the endocrine disrupting properties of the chemicals found in commonly used pesticides (many of which are also used on corn...to the detriment of the aquatic wildlife nearby). Here's hoping that studies on corn and it's potential effect on humans, through allergy or hormonal disruption, is next!

Where's the Corn in Vanilla?

So you've gone corn free. Ditched the cornstarch laden powdered sugar, the cornstarch laced baking powder, replaced your spices (ever used the same spoon to scoop out baking powder and cinnamon? Thought so.) and of course, cleansed the cupboard from those corny store-bought goodies.

Now, it's time to bake. You've got your corn free butter, free range eggs, and pure cane (or beet) sugar. You reach for the trusty bottle of vanilla extract...There's no corn in there, at least, right?

Think again. Virtually all store bought bottles of vanilla extract are extracted in none other than your basic, run of the mill corn based alcohol. The alcohol brings out the most in that aromatic vanilla bean, and makes it keep longer, too. Coming from corn based alcohol makes it gluten free (as well as using up more of that excess gold crop we subsidize here in America)

Many also are sweetened lightly with corn syrup. Yes, really. Read the ingredients next time you're shopping, and then set the bottle gently back on the shelf with a sigh. This means that even if you are okay with small exposures to corn based alcohol, you should still skip ingredient lists that read simply "vanilla". Don't forget that vanilla, as a flavoring in store bought goods, can also be found as a powder...and that is very likely to contain maltodextrin or corn starch.

Don't panic! All is not lost. At Passover time, there are often kosher-for-Passover vanilla extracts that are safe for us uncornies as well. (Those who keep kosher for religious reasons appreciate it when we actually place an order at the grocer for our needs, rather than simply clearing the shelfs, so keep that in mind if you plan to stock up. Most store managers will be more than happy to help you, and some will even offer a discount on bulk purchases.)

If kosher passover is not an option for you, purchase a small bottle of potato vodka or Circo grape vodka. Both are corn free, derived from corn free sources.

Place a plain old vanilla bean into the bottle and leave in a dark area for a few months. The vanilla flavor will grow stronger the longer it sits.

Alternatively, you could actually use the vanilla bean or simply steep your sugar in it for a more delicate flavor.

Vanilla beans are expensive, and if you just don't want to make the added expenditure or you don't have time to wait, using brown sugar (pure cane or beet) and skipping the vanilla will still produce a delicious dessert product. Adding chocolate chips never hurts either...as long as they're corn free, that is.

Where's the Corn in TOYS?

Toys. The symbols of an innocent, carefree childhood. America is up in arms about the hidden dangers of lead and melamine in products for young children, but we don't think twice about the sinister dangers lurking beneath the words "All Natural".

Nature is safe. For most folks.

There is an exception, though. As we keep pointing out, for those with allergies, nothing is sacred. Toys and other playthings are no exception.

Things to watch out for:
"Scented"--Many of us uncornies react to scents. Perhaps its the corn based ethanol, or maybe it's something else. Baby powder odors most certainly are applied with a liberal dose of cornstarch. Whatever the cause, scented baby dolls, play food kits, and other tantalizing playthings should send up large red flags.

"All natural, eco-friendly and/or Green"--as in all other areas, these words are more commonly found in unison with corn. Corn is cheap, readily available, and they need to get rid of it somehow. Alright, alright, it does have that nasty habit of actually decomposing quickly in a landfill which I suppose makes it technically eco-friendly, at least in some regards. Corn can be used to make cloth and stuffing for soft rag dolls and plushies; plastic polymers (think plastic tea sets)

Modeling compounds: Corn starch has great chemical properties for things like putty and play-dough. It's also non-toxic (when you aren't allergic to it) and the FDA claims it's hypoallergenic. Currently, FAAN seems to agree. Which makes it an appealing option to most child-friendly art suppliers.

Art supplies: As stated above, as a food product, corn based ingredients appeal to most companies that cater to kids. They feel it's a low allergy risk, and non toxic compared to most petroleum options. Besides, most parents reach for the label proclaiming "All natural!" It simply sells better.

Rattles and Beanbags: Corn kernels make a delightful rattling sound. They also settle well in the hand, and are slightly lighter and cheaper than dried beans. And, they can be used as soothing ice or hot packs. Corn kernels will eventually break down and the dust could, potentially, be problematic.

Cardboard: There are some playhuts and kitchen sets that include cardboard or are entirely designed of cardboard. Be aware that many corrugated cardboards are made with corn material. The dusty sensation many people experience when handling cardboard is corn starch, and when airborne (especially that thick) it can get accidentally ingested, causing GI reactions even for allergy sufferers who aren't contact sensitive.

Soft, malleable vinyl or plastic: these products, like the clothing for certain small pocket-sized dolls, can be coated with corn oil or starch to keep it from cracking. In fact, the manufacturers recommend regular dusting with baby powder or cornstarch. I'm not sure at this time if all toys can be cleaned of the residue, but many manufacturers will send out a coupon or rain check in return for merchandise that makes someone ill (You will probably need to return the product, with or without packaging; at their expense). So, if you react call the company and return the product. It lets them know there's a problem, and lets you get something safer for your household.

Anything meant to be blown up usually has a light dusting of cornstarch on the inside to keep it from attaching to itself; so don't use lung power to inflate balloons, swim rings or beach balls. A thorough rinsing of the outside, in theory, will remove corn starch residue.

Stuffed animals and other cloth: Corn is increasingly popular as an eco-friendly fiber. Watch out for corn stuffing, and soft corn fabric animals and dolls. The upside is, most manufacturers are proud of the corn-derived status. Popular names for corn fiber are amaizing wool (mostly used for mattresses and bedding for the time being) and Ingeo.

Where's the Corn in Clothing?

When you're dealing with a corn allergy, you're always on guard. It's there, everything that is packaged is carefully scrutinized for those tell tale words that mean "corn". And then, when the ingredient list passes the first scrutinization; you double check the packaging and call the company to verify that the ingredients of each ingredient is, indeed, safe for you to consume.

But sometimes, corn still sneaks up and bites you.

One of the most innocent seeming things is fabric. You wear it. You sleep on it. You wrap yourself up in it on a cold day. And shopping can be a fun, food free venture for the teenager in all of us.

Trying on clothes. Its as easy as pie. Easier, if you have a normal body style and like the current fashions.

Where could the harm come?

Unfortunately, as the corn growers association stretches the limit of their imaginations; and environmentalists stretch the limits of their imaginations, and anthropologists study the buying trends of the general public (We want sustainable goods! From new, natural, renewable resources!) corn finds its way into increasingly unexpected places.

Before trying on that dashing new blouse or flirty black dress, check the label. 100% cotton, or bamboo, or acrylic or even spandex might be okay. But if that label reads Ingeo, Natureworks PLA (From Cargill-Dow), Sorona or even simply "Corn Fibre"; buyer beware of even trying it on. Watch out for company issued uniform shirts too.

The main controversy against fitting humans out as corn husk dolls? The corn used to make many of these fabrics is genetically engineered. While that is a problem in and of itself, I'd like to know more about the potential for allergic reaction. As corn is considered hypoallergenic by many standards, and is an "all natural" fiber (as a native crop to the Americas) the labels are deceptively misleading. And how long does it really take to track down a mild rash? Or simple itching and discomfort? In our society we've learned to tune out our own instincts. Just look how long we used polyester. It's still in use, we just tend to blend it with breathable cotton for comfort sake.

Corn fabric is also being integrated into carpets, upholstery, mattresses, bedding, towels, and yarn.

And even if your fabric is certified, 100% cotton (and organic to boot); there's still the danger that it was washed in corn-laden laundry detergent. Read the ingredients of Seventh Generation or Natureclean to see corn proudly listed as a source ingredient on the label. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Corn is a better option for the environment than petroleum based chemicals that won't biodegrade into our soil. However...its still a safety issue for those of us who have allergic reactions to even minute amounts of the golden crop.

Clothes on store shelves may also be sprayed with anti-wrinkle agents, whose main ingredient is...you'll never guess...Yup, that's right...cornstarch. There are rumors from employees that similar measures are taken at second hand stores, clothing that looks more presentable is simply more salable. Luckily, a thorough washing should dissolve any corn-y residue...its just that anyone who is contact sensitive needs to beware.

Valentines and chocolate simply go hand in hand, at least once you hit somewhere between teenage and twenty-something. Men bring candy to their beloved on this sacred Hallmark holiday. It's written in stone. If they don't...well; then there must be something wrong.

And for many of us, there is. It's called...allergies. There are sites advertising Nut free chocolate. Vegan chocolate. Gluten free chocolate. But corn? What would those cream-colored kernels be doing dipped in chocolate?

A lot, actually. If you know anything about corn allergies, you already know that it masquerades under a myriad of names. It sneaks into packaging, as a "processing agent" and falls through the labeling cracks as an ingredient of an ingredient.

Nevertheless...it's valentines, and we want chocolate!

There is hope. Most of those beautiful red foil-wrapped heart-shaped boxes are off limits. Sorry, but an evening of cramps and nausea, or a migraine, or even a slow to develop itchy rash are not nearly as ubiquitous with "romance" as creamy, cocoay, chocolate. And if you love a corn-allergic person; handing them poison is just plain mean. Which means, you're not going to get away with last minute V-day shopping.

First; there's a matter of research. If you already have a safe brand...well; you're home free. If you're open to experimentation look into: Rapunzel chocolate drops (the milk chocolate bar has reported reactions); Dagoba (only bars without vanilla listed); Lindt dark (read labels, as usual, and it isn't gluten free); Equal Exchange (correspondence with the company indicates it should be safe, but as usual...read labels and proceed with caution) and Theo Brand Chocolate (again, the company indicated it's ingredients should be safe, but sometimes things fall through the cracks.)

Enjoy Life chocolate chips are also corn free; and go great in little heart shaped cookies or muffin tops. :-)

If you're Valentines shopping for someone else, you might also consider thinking outside the (heart shaped) box.
A lovely rose, or small bouquet of flowers will make the non-pollen allergy woman smile (Try some handmade origami blossoms for the woman with seasonal allergies).
Adopt a wild animal. Both National Wildlife Federation and Defenders of Wildlife offer unique adoption packages sure to please your Valentine. (and the money goes to a good cause, too.)
Music. Who doesn't love music? A special mix of "your" songs, or an ipod playlist of meaningful music shows that you care enough to put some effort into it. (Just make sure you do put some effort into it.)
A book. If you know you're beloved's taste in literature, all the better. Chick lit fans may love Nicholas Sparks, Fantasy followers will faun over Twilight; and classic connoisseurs will delight in rediscovering Bronte or Jane Austen.
A movie. Hold the popcorn, please. Nothing says "I love you" like snuggling up with a good movie and good company. Need inspiration? Just ask Amazon!
As far as lingerie goes...just make sure that you're buying 100% cotton or bamboo; and that the fabric isn't one of those great new eco-friendly CORN contrived fabrics.