Maize (Zea mays) cob (fruiting body) partially unwrapped from its husk. Maize is one of the world's most important crops. It can be eaten as corn-on-the-cob, as popcorn, or ground into corn flour. It can be distilled to make a whisky, and extracts are used in cooking oil and margarine. Maize is a good source of potassium and vitamin A, and is high in fibre.