Corn cob fresh harvest in farmer hands

Freshly harvested corn cob in a farmer's hands, with the field in the background during late afternoon.

About this subject

Corn (Zea mays) is one of the most widely cultivated cereals in the world, originating in Mesoamerica about 9,000 years ago. In Brazil, corn agribusiness is vital: the country is the third largest global producer, behind only the United States and China. The 2023/2024 Brazilian harvest reached approximately 130 million tons, according to Conab. Cultivation occurs in two main seasons: the first (summer) and the second (safrinha), which accounts for about 70% of national production and is sown after soybean harvest.

The image shows a freshly harvested corn cob, still with green husk, held by a farmer's gloved hands. The background reveals a vast cornfield under late afternoon light, a common time for mechanized harvesting when temperatures are milder. Corn harvesting occurs when grains reach moisture content between 13% and 15%, ideal for storage. A typical ear contains 400 to 600 grains arranged in rows around the cob.

Corn is raw material for various products: animal feed (about 60% of domestic consumption), ethanol, oil, flour, glucose syrup, and starch. In Brazil, per capita consumption of fresh corn is low, but large-scale production supplies protein chains like poultry and swine. The crop is also strong in family farming, especially in the Northeast, where green corn is boiled or roasted during June festivals.

Manual harvesting, though still present in small properties, has been largely replaced by self-propelled harvesters that cut, thresh, and clean grains in one operation. Recording this moment with human hands carrying the ear evokes the connection between rural labor and the food that reaches the table. The corn harvest is an important indicator of Brazil's agricultural GDP, moving billions of reais annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to harvest corn?

Corn is harvested when grains reach moisture content between 13% and 15%, usually 120 to 150 days after planting, depending on variety and region.

How many grains are on a corn cob?

A typical corn cob contains 400 to 600 grains arranged in rows around the cob. The number varies according to plant genetics and growing conditions.

Is corn only important for human food?

No, about 60% of corn produced in Brazil is used for animal feed. It is also used for ethanol, oil, starch, and many other industrial products.