How is dent corn different from flint corn?

Dent corn and flint corn are primarily distinguished by their kernel composition and physical structure:

• Kernel Composition: Dent corn contains both hard and soft starch. In contrast, flint corn contains very little soft starch.1
• Physical Appearance: The unequal drying of the hard and soft starch in dent corn creates a characteristic depression or "dent" in the crown of the kernel. Because flint corn lacks significant soft starch, its kernels do not develop this depression.1
• Uses: Dent corn is widely grown for animal feed and food manufacturing. Flint corn is often used for decorative purposes and is consumed as hominy in the Americas.1

Both varieties are considered types of field corn, which are generally utilized for livestock feed or processed into products like cornmeal, oil, and syrup.2