CAROTENOID CONTENT IN SWEET CORN KERNELS: IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMAN HEALTH AND FOOD SECURITY

Sweet corn (Zea mays ssp. saccharata) is a vegetable of high nutritional value, important for human health and food security. Its kernels contain carotenoids: plant pigments that play significant health-promoting roles, including functioning as natural antioxidants and serving as precursors of vitamin A. The aim of this study was to provide a synthetic overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the carotenoid content in sweet corn kernels, their significance for human health (particularly in the context of preventing civilization diseases), and food security. Scientific studies retrieved from electronic databases using MeSH terms related to sweet corn, carotenoids, health-promoting properties, and food security were analyzed. It was demonstrated that lutein and zeaxanthin are the predominant carotenoids in sweet corn kernels, contributing to its health-promoting value (e.g. protection of vision). The content of these compounds may vary significantly depending on genotype, cultivation conditions, and environmental factors. Achieving consistently elevated levels of provitamin A in corn kernels is of particular importance from a public health perspective: biofortification of corn varieties may help reduce the phenomenon of hidden vitamin deficiency and ensure food security.