How To Pick Fresh Corn At the Market

Tantalize your family's taste buds with tender, sweet corn by knowing what makes a good ear.

Step 1: Peel back a tiny part of the husk to take a look at the kernels – they should be shiny and juicy.
Step 2: Eat corn the same day you buy it, when it is closest to the peak of freshness and still sweet enough to have everyone asking for seconds!
FACT: Each ear of corn averages 800 kernels in 16 rows.
TIP: Don't judge freshness by the bottom. Produce handlers often recut them to make the ears appear fresh.
Step 3: Feel the corn all the way around, checking to make sure all sides are firm to the touch.
Step 4: Select ears with light-colored tassels that are silky and slightly moist.
TIP: Avoid ears with brown or brittle tassels
Step 5: Look for husks that are bright green and wrapped tightly around the ear.