Sweetcorn 4 pk

Woolworths Sweetcorn 4 pk

  • Whole food
  • Checked
  • Grade B
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The short answer

Sweetcorn 4 pk by Woolworths has 102 kcal, 19 g carbs, 3.4 g protein and 1.8 g fat per serving (1 cob (approx. 100g)).

Calories102kcal
Carbs19g
Protein3.4g
Fat1.8g
About it

Woolworths Sweetcorn, packaged in a convenient 4-pack, offers a natural source of carbohydrates with 15g per serving (100g cob). This whole food option is suitable for athletes seeking a moderate carb intake without added sodium. The sweetcorn's natural sugars (3g per serving) provide a gentle energy release, making it ideal for steady-state activities. Its fiber content (3.2g per serving) may slow gastric emptying, so timing relative to intense sessions is crucial. Sweetcorn is best consumed as part of a balanced meal pre- or post-training, rather than during high-intensity efforts, due to its solid form and fiber content.

  • Natural carbohydrate source
  • Low sodium content
  • Moderate energy release

On the label per serving, 1 cob (approx. 100g)

Energy426 kJ
Calories102 kcal
Carbs19.0 g
Sugar3.2 g
Fibre4.0 g
Protein3.4 g
Fat1.8 g
Saturated fat0.6 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Sodium0 mg

The numbers that matter on a training day

Carb density19%Carbs as a share of the food's weight: how hard it is on the gut at pace.
Glucose to fructose—Glucose with fructose lifts how much carb the gut can take in an hour.
Sodium per 100 kcal0 mgSalt for the energy it carries; sweat loses 300 to 600 mg an hour.
Energy density4.3 kJ/gEnergy you carry per gram, when grams in the pocket matter.
Servings for 60 g an hour3.2How many an hour for a 60 g carb baseline.
Glycaemic profileSweetcorn has a moderate glycemic index, providing a steady energy release. Its fiber content contributes to slower gastric emptying and a gradual blood sugar response.

How we read foods ›

For endurance who it suits

Endurance verdict

Woolworths Sweetcorn is a natural, moderate-carb option for endurance athletes, best used outside of intense training windows due to its fiber content and solid form. It lacks sodium, so additional sources may be needed during prolonged exercise. Its suitability is highest for those who prioritize whole foods in their diet.

Who it is for

Endurance athletes seeking a natural, whole food carbohydrate source will find sweetcorn beneficial. It's ideal for those who prefer minimally processed foods and need a moderate carb intake for steady-state activities. However, athletes with high sweat rates or those requiring rapid energy may need additional sodium and faster-digesting carbs.

Best sessions

Sweetcorn is best suited for moderate-intensity, steady-state sessions or as a component of recovery meals. It's less ideal for high-intensity intervals or long rides where rapid carb absorption is critical.

Pros
  • Natural, whole food carbohydrate source
  • Moderate energy release from natural sugars
  • Low sodium content suitable for low-sweat sessions
  • Versatile for pre- or post-training meals
Cons
  • Solid form not ideal for mid-race fueling
  • Lacks sodium for high-sweat athletes
  • Fiber content may slow gastric emptying
Watch out for
  • Potential GI distress if consumed during intense exercise
  • Inadequate sodium for high sweat rates

Fuelling science in short

During a session

Not recommended during workouts due to its solid form and fiber content, which can slow gastric emptying and potentially cause GI distress.

Glycaemic profile

Sweetcorn has a moderate glycemic index, providing a steady energy release. Its fiber content contributes to slower gastric emptying and a gradual blood sugar response.

Electrolytes

With 0 mg sodium per serving, sweetcorn may not meet the sodium needs of athletes with high sweat losses (300-600mg/hr). Potassium content is unspecified but generally present in corn.

Carb breakdown
Total carbs
15 g
Hourly capacity
60g/h with glucose-only; lower with fiber

Race day before, during and after

Suits it for
  • BeforeCAUTION
  • DuringDO NOT USE
  • AfterUSE
  • Carb loadCAUTION
  • Every dayUSE

Sweetcorn is suitable for recovery and everyday training due to its natural carb content. However, its fiber and solid form limit its use pre-race and during intense sessions. For carb-loading, its moderate density and fiber may lead to satiety before reaching carb targets.

CAUTION: Sweetcorn's fiber content may slow gastric emptying, making it less ideal immediately before a race. Consume at least 2-3 hours prior to allow for digestion.

Pair it with
  • Pair with a protein source for recovery meals to enhance muscle repair.
  • Combine with a sodium-rich food or drink during long sessions to balance electrolytes.
  • Use alongside faster-digesting carbs for high-intensity workouts.

For practitioners the evidence

Evidence grade: C — Limited direct endurance-specific studies; general nutritional data applied.

In a carb load

Sweetcorn has a moderate carb density of 19g per 100g, which is not high enough to be ideal for carb-loading. A 100g serving contributes only 15g towards a 600g daily target, requiring 40 servings for a 70kg athlete, which is impractical due to volume and fiber content. Its moderate satiety efficiency and fiber can lead to fullness before reaching carb targets.

Digestion and absorption

Sweetcorn undergoes mechanical breakdown in the mouth, with amylase initiating starch digestion. Its moderate fiber content slows gastric emptying, leading to gradual glucose absorption via SGLT1 transporters in the small intestine. The fiber may reach the colon, where fermentation can occur, potentially causing bloating if consumed in excess.

Recovery

Sweetcorn provides carbohydrates for glycogen resynthesis but lacks protein, making it inadequate alone for muscle protein synthesis. Pairing with protein-rich foods post-exercise can enhance recovery. Its low sodium content means additional electrolyte sources may be needed for rehydration.

Downsides

Sweetcorn's fiber content can cause GI distress if consumed during exercise. Its moderate glycemic index may lead to slower energy availability, unsuitable for rapid fueling needs. Low sodium content may not replenish sweat losses during intense or prolonged sessions.

Don't use it when
  • Do not use during high-intensity sessions due to fiber content.
  • Do not rely on sweetcorn alone for sodium replacement in high sweat conditions.
  • Do not use as a primary carb source for rapid glycogen replenishment post-exercise.
Clinical risks
  • High fiber content may cause bloating if consumed in large quantities.
  • Low sodium content may not meet electrolyte needs during intense exercise.
  • Solid form can cause GI distress if consumed too close to exercise.
  • Moderate glycemic index may not provide rapid energy during high-intensity sessions.

Questions about Sweetcorn 4 pk

How many carbs are in Sweetcorn 4 pk by Woolworths?

19 g of carbs per serving (1 cob (approx. 100g)), with 102 kcal and 3.4 g protein.

Can sweetcorn be eaten before a race?

Consume at least 2-3 hours before to allow digestion due to fiber content.

Is sweetcorn suitable during workouts?

No, its solid form and fiber content can cause GI distress during exercise.

How does sweetcorn aid recovery?

Provides carbs for glycogen replenishment; pair with protein for muscle repair.

What are alternatives to sweetcorn for mid-race fueling?

Opt for gels or liquid carbohydrates that digest rapidly.

Does sweetcorn contain allergens?

No common allergens are present, but always check for cross-contamination.

How should sweetcorn be stored?

Store in a cool, dry place and refrigerate once cooked, consuming within 3 days.

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