Changes of moisture distribution and migration in fresh ear corn during storage

Understanding of moisture changes in fresh ear corn (Zea mays L.) during storage is imperative for maintaining fresh corn quality. The changes of moisture distribution and migration in fresh ear corn during storage were investigated using low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Water loss was greater than water migration in fresh ear corn within the first hour of storage; thereafter, water loss was weaker than water migration. With the extension of storage time, the signal intensity of MRI in different parts of sliced fresh corn with cob showed a downward trend, and the rate of signal intensity reduction was higher in the peripheral area than at the central part of sliced fresh corn with cob. The relative proportion of bound water increased with a concomitant drop in that of free water, when the total water content reduced in fresh ear corn under storage. In conclusion, NMR and MRI are useful and non-destructive tools for real-time monitoring of moisture distribution, migration, and loss in fresh ear corn during storage to assess its quality. These results can be used for future design of the preserving and processing conditions for fresh ear corn.