Cornmeal

Grain

Cornmeal at a glance

Category
Grain
Also called
Polenta, Maize meal, Corn flour (coarse)
Commonly found in
Cornbread, Polenta, Corn muffins, Breading for fried foods
Diets reviewed
26 diets

What is Cornmeal?

Cornmeal is a type of coarse flour that is ground from dried kernels of corn. It is a versatile ingredient commonly used in baking cornbread, muffins, and as a batter or coating for fried foods. Cornmeal can also be used as a thickener in soups and stews, adding a distinctive flavor and texture. It is available in several grind sizes, from fine to coarse, and can be found in both yellow and white varieties, depending on the type of corn used.

Also known as:

PolentaMaize mealCorn flour (coarse)

Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeAvoid

Cornmeal is a coarse flour ground from dried corn, commonly used in baking and as a coating or thickener in recipes. Cornmeal should be avoided on a corn-free diet because it is made entirely from corn and contains intact corn proteins.

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Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

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Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

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Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

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Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

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Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

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Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

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GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

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Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

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Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

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Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

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Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

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Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

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Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

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Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

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Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

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Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

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PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

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Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

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Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

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Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

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Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

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Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

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VeganSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.

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VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

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Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

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Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Cornmeal

People following a corn-free diet avoid cornmeal because it is made entirely from corn, containing intact corn proteins that can trigger allergic reactions or intolerances in sensitive individuals. Corn allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, from mild to severe, and therefore it is crucial for those with such allergies or sensitivities to avoid cornmeal and any products containing it.

Potential Reactions

  • Allergic reactions
  • Digestive issues
  • Hives
  • Swelling
  • Anaphylaxis

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Cornmeal

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Related to Cornmeal

Other ingredients people often check alongside Cornmeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

  • Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
  • Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
  • Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
  • Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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