Using the KFC - Kernel For Cellulosic

In Ethanol, New Uses, Research by Cindy

Researchers at the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center (NCERC) may have found the kernel’s secret recipe for making cellulosic ethanol, recently announcing the successful production of ethanol from the cellulosic portion of the corn kernel. “This research is demonstrated proof of the viability of ‘generation 2.0 ethanol,’” NCERC Director John Caupert said. “By utilizing existing technologies readily available in the commercial …

Corn Gene Fights Multiple Leaf Diseases

In Farming, Research by Cindy

One little gene in corn can make the difference in susceptibility to three major leaf diseases, according to USDA researchers. Three diseases - southern corn leaf blight, northern leaf blight, and gray leaf spot - all cause lesions on corn leaves worldwide and the latter two are significant problems for Midwest corn growers. The discovery, by a team of USDA …

Important Study Shows: Confusing Messaging Works

In HFCS, Research by Cathryn

Recently, Market Watch from the Wall Street Journal  published a paid press release talking about two new studies that the Sugar Association touts as defending their position that high fructose corn syrup is intrinsically different from the processed cane and beet sweeteners they promote. Reference to a scientific study which neither mimicked an actual human diet nor compared the metabolic …

Corn Production in the Pacific Northwest

In Farming, Research by Cindy

Idaho is synonymous with potatoes, but more corn is in the ground there these days to support a growing dairy industry. Even though Idaho and other Pacific Northwest states combined currently make up less than 2% of the nation’s total corn production, scientists with USDA’s Agricultural Research Service are studying soil moisture levels and other field dynamics to help farmers …

Real Research Busts Anti- Corn Sugar Activists for Their Fear Mongering Hype

In HFCS, Research by Cathryn

With all of the products labeled “No HFCS” cluttering store shelves, it seems obvious that consumers are demanding food manufacturers banish what was once an industry staple.  Like many assumptions though, this isn’t the case.  According to a study released earlier this month by Mintel Research Consultancy, most consumers look to avoid total added sugars and not high fructose corn …

Busted! Argonne Scientist Counters Ethanol Myths

In Current News, Environmental, Ethanol, Food, Food Prices, Food vs Fuel, Research, Water by Cathryn

With all of the misinformation about ethanol flying around, some consumers have become confused about who they can and cannot trust as a source of information.  Why not go straight to the experts?  An Argonne National Laboratory Transportation Technology R&D Center Mechanical Engineer has decided to clear the air and let everyone in on what scientists already know – ethanol …

Studies Show HFCS Isn’t the Obesity Boogie Man

In HFCS, Research by Cathryn

While it may be easier to blame the pounds that have crept around our midsections over the past few winters on a single demon-food, a comprehensive review of research presented by James M. Rippe, MD, at the American Society of Hypertension Annual Meeting shows yet again that the way the human body metabolizes high fructose corn syrup and table sugar …

Corn in Your Tank = Money in Your Pocket

In American Ethanol, Ethanol, Research by Cathryn

According to a study recently released by the Iowa State University Center for Agricultural and Rural Development, U.S. ethanol saves drivers money at the pump.  Tracking historic data over the past decade and looking specifically at 2010, research shows that ethanol helps keep gas prices down. Department of Energy data shows U.S. gasoline use averaged 138 billion gallons per year …

Symbiotic Virus Could Cut Smut

In Biotechnology, Research by Cindy

With a name like smut, it just has to be bad - and it is. Smut fungi are agents of disease responsible for significant crop losses worldwide, especially in corn, where the airborne fungus is found most frequently on ears, tassels and nodes. According to the National Corn Growers Association, corn smut accounts for approximately $1 billion in crop losses …