Performance of corn hybrids for in natura consumption in the Pontal do Triângulo Mineiro region of Brazil

Corn is considered one of the most economically important crops in the world. However, in addition to its importance for grain production, this crop stands out for the consumption of green corn. This study aimed to characterize different corn hybrids grown in the Pontal do Triângulo Mineiro region of Brazil, considering the agronomic characteristics of importance and the preference of local consumers. We evaluated six characteristics as follows: cob length (CL), cob diameter (CD), cob weight with husks (WWH) (g), weight without husks (WWNH) (g), soluble solids content (SS) (°Brix), and plant population per ha (PP). Data were subjected to analysis of variance and the means were compared by the Scott-Knott test at a 1% probability level. For the sensory analysis, we evaluated the flavor, color, texture, and purchase intention characteristics of corn cobs. The hybrids XB6012 Bt, R9789 vip3, SX 8555 vip3, SX 7005 vip3 and BM709 PRO2 showed higher values for CL and WWNH, characteristics of importance for the fresh corn consumer market. The hybrid BM 709 PRO2 had significant potential compared to the others, due to the higher values of CL and CD, in addition to being among the hybrids with the highest WWNH. Based on the sensory analysis, the hybrids SX 7005 vip3 and DKB 390 PRO3 stood out in terms of flavor and texture, surpassing the local commercial corn.