The provided reference suggests harvesting sap from corn stalks, not corn syrup. Corn syrup is not harvested directly from corn stalks; it is manufactured through a complex process. The information about tapping corn stalks to collect sap is inaccurate regarding corn syrup production.
Here's a breakdown of how corn syrup is actually made:
-
Corn Starch Extraction: The process begins with corn kernels. The starch is separated from the kernels through a milling process. This involves grinding the corn and separating the starch, protein, and fiber.
-
Acid Hydrolysis (Traditional Method): The corn starch is mixed with water and a dilute acid (historically hydrochloric acid). This mixture is heated, breaking down the starch molecules (polysaccharides) into simpler sugars, mainly glucose. The acid is then neutralized.
-
Enzyme Conversion (Modern Method): This is the more common method today. Enzymes, such as alpha-amylase and glucoamylase, are used to break down the corn starch into glucose. This enzymatic process offers more control over the types and amounts of sugars produced.
-
Refining and Filtration: The resulting syrup is refined to remove impurities and unwanted byproducts. This involves filtration and other purification steps.
-
Evaporation: The refined syrup is then evaporated to increase its concentration and achieve the desired viscosity.
-
Optional Additives: Depending on the desired characteristics of the corn syrup, other ingredients like vanilla extract or preservatives may be added.
-
High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) Production: If the goal is to produce High-Fructose Corn Syrup, a further enzymatic process is applied. The enzyme glucose isomerase is used to convert a portion of the glucose into fructose, increasing the sweetness of the syrup. The proportions of glucose and fructose vary depending on the specific type of HFCS being produced (e.g., HFCS 42, HFCS 55).
In Summary: Corn syrup is manufactured from corn starch through a multi-step process involving hydrolysis (either acid or enzyme-based), refining, and concentration. It is not directly harvested by tapping corn stalks. The concept of tapping corn stalks for sap is unrelated to corn syrup production.
