Peak sweetness and shelf life of fresh corn
Sweet corn’s sugars begin converting to starch immediately after harvest, so timing matters. For the best flavor and texture, aim to cook or consume ears as soon as possible.
Timeline for peak quality:
- Within 24 hours: Best flavor and maximum sweetness; kernels are plump and juicy.
- 1–3 days refrigerated: Still very good if kept cold and husks remain intact.
- 3–7 days refrigerated: Sweetness declines; kernels start to dry and starch increases.
- Beyond a week: Noticeable loss of sweetness and tenderness; texture becomes mealy.
Storage tips to preserve sweetness:
- Keep husks on until ready to use to slow moisture loss.
- Store in the refrigerator unwashed, ideally in a perforated plastic bag to retain humidity.
- If you can’t use within 24–48 hours, blanch and freeze kernels for longer-term storage—this locks in sweetness.
Buying tip: Buy local and in-season when possible for freshest ears. If peak sweetness is crucial for your recipe, plan to cook the same day or the next day after purchase.