Do We Finally Know How Many Ears Of Corn Are In One Can?

Understanding the number of ears of corn required to fill a standard can is a common curiosity among consumers and cooks alike. Typically, a standard can of corn, which usually holds about 15 ounces of kernels, is equivalent to two to three medium-sized ears of corn. This estimation can vary slightly depending on the size and variety of the corn, as well as the method used to cut the kernels from the cob. Sweet corn, often used for canned corn, tends to have tightly packed kernels, maximizing the number of kernels per ear. When corn is harvested and processed for canning, the kernels are removed from the cob and often cooked before being sealed in the can. This process ensures that the corn remains fresh and flavorful for consumption later. For those looking to substitute fresh corn for canned in recipes, understanding this conversion can be particularly useful. It allows for accurate recipe adjustments and ensures that the final dish maintains the intended flavor and texture. Overall, while the exact number of ears can vary, two to three ears is a reliable rule of thumb for those looking to equate fresh corn to its canned counterpart.
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Corn off the cob and then back on

The YouTuber started with two corn cobs and then allegedly affixed kernels from a Heinz can (presumably the standard 15.25-ounce size) back onto the empty cobs. Iowans, who produce the most corn in the U.S., might frown upon the waste of two perfectly good ears of corn, but it's all in the name of science—or something like it. In the video, the kernels appear to magically transfer from the can to the cobs through stop-motion photography, culminating in one and a half complete ears of corn.

Naturally, there was a simpler way to address this (not particularly) pressing question. A 15.25-ounce can of corn holds approximately 1½ cups, while an average ear of corn contains about ¾ cup of kernels, which totals around two ears. However, we must consider whether we're discussing drained corn and the size of the ears in question. Ultimately, we can confidently conclude that a can contains between one and a half and two ears of corn. Now that you (perhaps) have the answer to a question no one really asked, you might be curious about the best and worst canned corn options available. Surprisingly, Wegmans brand ranks at the top. That information could actually prove useful.

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