Breaking food news: corn chips turn blue – the chemicals, additives, and strange reactions behind it

Corn chips are a beloved snack enjoyed by people of all ages. However, one particular variety has always puzzled consumers: blue corn chips. Unlike their traditional yellow counterparts, blue corn chips possess a vibrant azure tint that has sparked numerous questions about their origin and composition. In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating world of blue corn chips to uncover the secrets behind their enigmatic blue hue.

The Origins of Blue Corn

The key to understanding the blue color of corn chips lies in the unique type of corn used to make them. Unlike regular corn, blue corn is a variety of maize that naturally produces a blue pigment called anthocyanin. Anthocyanins are water-soluble pigments that are responsible for the vibrant colors found in many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. In the case of blue corn, the anthocyanins are present in the outer layer of the kernel, giving it its distinctive blue hue.

The Milling Process: Preserving the Blue Pigment

Once the blue corn is harvested, it undergoes a milling process to produce cornmeal. The milling process involves grinding the corn kernels into a fine powder. However, it is crucial to ensure that the milling process does not damage the anthocyanins, as this could result in the loss of the blue color. To preserve the pigment, the corn is often milled using a stone grinder or a roller mill, which gently grinds the kernels without generating excessive heat.

The Extrusion Process: Shaping the Corn Chips

The next step in the production of blue corn chips is the extrusion process. During extrusion, the cornmeal is mixed with water and other ingredients to form a dough. The dough is then forced through a die, which shapes it into the familiar triangular shape of corn chips. The extrusion process also applies heat and pressure, which helps to cook the corn chips and give them their crispy texture.

The Drying Process: Maintaining the Blue Color

After extrusion, the corn chips are dried to remove any remaining moisture. The drying process is carefully controlled to prevent the blue color from fading. The chips are typically dried at a low temperature over a period of several hours. This slow drying process allows the anthocyanins to retain their vibrant hue.

The Seasoning Process: Adding Flavor

Once the corn chips are dry, they are seasoned with a variety of flavors. The most common flavorings include salt, chili powder, and cheese powder. The seasoning is applied to the chips by tumbling them in a seasoning drum. The drum rotates the chips, ensuring that they are evenly coated with the flavoring.

The Packaging Process: Preserving Freshness

The final step in the production of blue corn chips is the packaging process. The chips are packaged in airtight bags or containers to preserve their freshness and flavor. The packaging also protects the blue color of the chips from fading due to exposure to light and air.

Beyond the Blue: Other Colored Corn Chips

While blue corn chips are the most well-known variety of colored corn chips, there are also other colors available. These include:

• Red corn chips: Made from red corn, these chips have a reddish-orange hue.
• Black corn chips: Made from black corn, these chips have a deep purple color.
• Purple corn chips: Made from purple corn, these chips have a vibrant purple hue.

Recommendations: The Beauty of Diversity

Blue corn chips are a testament to the diversity and beauty of the natural world. Their unique blue color is derived from the anthocyanins present in blue corn, and the careful production process ensures that this color is preserved throughout the manufacturing process. Whether enjoyed as a snack on their own or paired with your favorite dip, blue corn chips add a splash of color and a touch of intrigue to any gathering.