Stress cracks are one of the most troublesome types of corn damage caused by improper drying and cooling. Stress cracks are fine cracks in the endosperm of the kernel, located just below the surface.

Cornstarch, also called maize starch or corn flour in the U.S., is the starch found in corn grains. It is a fine, white powder made from the endosperm or the starchy part of corn kernels.