Ingredient

Corn Treated With Lime Water

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Nixtamalization is crucial for making traditional Mexican and Central American foods like tortillas, tamales, …

What it is

Corn treated with lime water, also known as nixtamalized corn, is a process that originated with Mesoamerican cultures. It involves soaking and cooking dried corn kernels in an alkaline solution, typically made from calcium hydroxide (lime). This process softens the corn, makes nutrients more available, and improves flavor and texture.

Why it's used

Nixtamalization is crucial for making traditional Mexican and Central American foods like tortillas, tamales, and masa. The process breaks down the corn's hull and softens the kernel, making it easier to grind into masa dough. It also imparts a distinct flavor and aroma preferred in these dishes.

Health notes

In the US, nixtamalized corn is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. The process increases the availability of niacin (Vitamin B3), reducing the risk of pellagra. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated corn and its derivatives, but specific evaluations for nixtamalized corn may vary. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical consumption.

Allergen info

Corn is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Corn Treated With Lime Water

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Topco Associates, Inc. Clear Value, Taco Seasoning Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 300kcal 0Protein 0Fat 60Carbs Del Real LLC Sweet Corn Tamales Other Deli High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 246kcal 2.8Protein 7.8Fat 43.7Carbs Del Real LLC Cheese Srirancha Tamales Other Deli High in sodium — 23% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 55% DV per serving 289kcal 9.9Protein 19.7Fat 20.4Carbs Bashas' Markets Dos Ranchitos, Beef Tamales Other Deli High in sodium — 23% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 168kcal 7.1Protein 9.7Fat 13.3Carbs Bashas' Markets Dos Ranchitos, Pork Tamales Other Deli High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 177kcal 8.0Protein 8.8Fat 15.9Carbs Los Altos Tortilleria, LLC White Corn Tortillas Mexican Dinner Mixes 260kcal 6Protein 0Fat 54Carbs

Del Real LLC Chicken Tamales In Red Sauce, Chicken In Red Sauce Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 37% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 188kcal 5.9Protein 10Fat 18.8Carbs Del Real LLC Pumpkin Tamales Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 254kcal 2.1Protein 7.8Fat 45.1Carbs Hmb, Inc. Chicken Tamales In Green Sauce, Chicken In Green Sauce Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 53% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 218kcal 4.9Protein 14.8Fat 16.2Carbs Phoenix Food LLC Chicken Enchilada Soup Mix, Chicken Enchilada Other Soups 286kcal 0Protein 0Fat 42.9Carbs Phoenix Food LLC Chicken Enchilada Soup Mix, Chicken Enchilada Other Soups 286kcal 0Protein 0Fat 42.9Carbs

Del Real LLC Pork In Red Sauce Tamales, Pork Prepared Wraps and Burittos High in sodium — 32% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 224kcal 6.5Protein 14.1Fat 18.8Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.