Is the fungus on this corn cob Corn Smut? And is it safe to eat?

by Stacey
(Vancouver, BC)

QUESTION:

I bought a bag of corn at the framer’s market and, when I got home and started peeling them, I found this one, with this slivery-covered growth, and a dark inside.

I’ve heard about this before, but I’ve never seen it.

Am I right? Is this corn smut? And is it dangerous? Should I throw out heads of corn that have this growth on them?


ANSWER:

It looks like corn smut to me!

There is a lot more of this around this year, because it likes wet weather, and there has been plenty of rain in many growing areas this summer.

Corn smut, known scientifically as Ustilago maydis, is a fungal disease that primarily affects corn. While it's considered a disease in the United States and many other countries, in some countries the galls (or tumors) are used in various dishes.

In Mexico, for example, huitlacoche (weet-la-KOH-chay) is considered a delicacy and is often compared to truffles in terms of its culinary value. Its earthy and somewhat smoky flavor makes it a prized ingredient in various dishes, such as tacos, quesadillas, soups, and more.

Nutritionally, huitlacoche is rich in lysine, an essential amino acid often lacking in corn.

Apparently, it really is delicious!

Can you safely eat corn smut? While the corn smut caused by Ustilago maydis is edible and even considered a delicacy, not all smut fungi are edible.

If you're considering consuming any wild fungus or plant, it's essential to ensure proper identification and consult with an expert. Just to be sure.

Nick