How Much Maize Flour Do You Get from Grinding 1kg of Maize Grain?

Grinding 1 kilogram of maize grain results in 1 kilogram of ground maize. This process is commonly done in simple village mills, such as hammer mills, where grain is ground on a regular basis to ensure freshness and healthiness. However, this ground maize is not considered maize flour in the traditional sense. There are several reasons for this, primarily due to the presence of the germ and pericarp, which can negatively affect the flour's quality and storage life.

Grinding Process in Village Mills

People often take their grain to village mills regularly, typically every few days to a week, grinding only the amount needed for their immediate consumption. This method ensures that the meal remains fresh and is the healthiest option. The unprocessed mixture, although 1 kilogram in weight, is not regarded as maize flour because it contains the germ, which contains a small amount of oil that can spoil over time in storage.

The grinding process in these village mills typically involves the following steps:

Moistening the Grain: The grain is slightly moistened. Passing Through Rollers: The grain is passed through rollers that apply pressure, causing the germ to pop out. Sieving: The germ is separated from the rest of the grain using sieves. Removed Pericarp (Hard Skin): The pericarp, or the hard skin of the grain, may also be removed during the same processing pass. Redrying: A short re-drying operation is performed after the processing. Milling: The grain is then milled to produce a very white flour with good storage life, or a yellow flour if yellow maize is used.

Nutritious Waste Products: Germ and Pericarp

The germ and pericarp, which are separated during the milling process, make up approximately 30% of the grain weight. These components are collectively known as hominy chop and are considered a very nutritious mixture. While hominy chop is a popular feed for animals, it is not suitable for human consumption as a flour replacement. Once separated, the germ and pericarp are typically sold for animal feed.

Seed Versus Grain

It is important to clarify that the 1 kg of maize you grind is generally not considered a seed but rather a grain. When used as a seed, the resulting flour yield would be 700 grams. This highlights the difference between milling for immediate consumption and milling for potential germination and subsequent flour production.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the grinding of 1 kilogram of maize grain with a hammer mill and retention of all ground components results in a fresh but not flour-like mixture. The traditional method of milling to produce maize flour involves the removal of these nutrients to extend the flour's shelf life and ensure a more stable and wholesome product. Understanding the differences between these processes can help in making informed choices about nutrition and storage.