Corn Gluten
Definition:
Corn gluten is a type of protein that comes from corn. It is made during the process of making corn products like corn starch or corn syrup. It is often found in animal feed, as well as in some food products and gardening products.
Usage Instructions:
- In cooking: Corn gluten can be used as a thickening agent in recipes. It is not commonly used in home cooking but is important in food production. - In gardening: Corn gluten meal is used as a natural herbicide to prevent weeds from growing.
Examples:
1. "The farmer uses corn gluten to feed his livestock because it is high in protein." 2. "I added corn gluten meal to my garden soil to help control weeds."
Advanced Usage:
- In agriculture, corn gluten is often discussed in relation to sustainable farming practices. It can serve as an organic alternative to chemical herbicides. - In the food industry, corn gluten is sometimes included in products aimed at gluten-free diets, but it is important to note that it is not suitable for people with celiac disease since it contains gluten.
Word Variants:
- Corn Gluten Meal: This is the ground form of corn gluten and is commonly used in gardening. - Corn Gluten Feed: This refers to the byproduct of corn processing that is used as animal feed.
Different Meaning:
While "corn gluten" specifically refers to the protein derived from corn, "gluten" in general can refer to proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye, which are different from corn gluten.
Synonyms:
- Corn protein (though less common) - Corn gluten meal (when referring to the meal form)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include "corn gluten," but you might hear phrases related to agriculture or cooking that include "gluten" in a broader sense.