Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): Corn Germ
Identification
Product Name: Corn Germ
Common Names: Maize Germ, Zea Mays Germ
Manufacturer: Name and contact available upon request or product packaging
Recommended Use: Ingredient for animal feed, edible oil extraction, industrial uses
Emergency Contact Number: Refer to supplier or regional emergency services
Molecular Formula: Not applicable, naturally derived material
Synonyms: Corn embryo, Maize embryo
Hazard Identification
Hazard Classification: Not considered hazardous under normal conditions
Signal Word: None
Hazard Statements: Dust may cause mild irritation to eyes and respiratory system
Precautionary Statements: Avoid dust formation, use adequate ventilation
GHS Pictograms: None required
Other Hazards: Organic dust can present a risk of combustible dust explosions in certain conditions
Composition / Information on Ingredients
Corn Germ: 100% natural origin, unrefined or refined depending on process
Key Components: Triacylglycerols, proteins, carbohydrates, moisture, minerals
CAS Number: 8002-70-8 (for corn oil), unassigned for raw corn germ
Impurities: May contain minimal plant debris, trace pesticides (within agri-standards)
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air, rinse mouth and nasal passages with water
Eye Contact: Rinse gently with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water. Seek medical attention for persistent redness or rash.
Ingestion: Not expected to cause symptoms under normal use. Rinse mouth and drink water if large quantities are accidentally swallowed.
Additional Advice: Seek medical assistance for any symptoms not relieved after basic measures
Fire-Fighting Measures
Suitable Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, CO2, foam, water spray
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media: High pressure water jets can scatter burning material
Hazards from Combustion: Thermal decomposition can produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other organic compounds
Protective Equipment: Firefighters use self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing
Specific Methods: Remove containers from fire area if safe. Cool exposed containers with water spray.
Fire/Explosion Risk: Dust can form explosive mixtures with air in confined spaces or upon dispersion
Accidental Release Measures
Personal Precautions: Avoid inhaling dust, ventilate area, minimize generation of airborne particles
Protective Equipment: Gloves, safety goggles, dust mask as needed in large spills
Methods for Cleanup: Sweep or vacuum spilled material using explosion-proof equipment
Environmental Precautions: Prevent entry to waterways, drains or soil. Contain spill to prevent drift
Disposal: Collect residue and place in approved containers for recovery or disposal
Handling and Storage
Handling: Wear protective gear to avoid direct contact. Use dust collection for bulk handling. Take precautions against dust generation. Ground and bond equipment to prevent static discharge.
Storage Conditions: Store in dry, cool, well-ventilated areas. Keep away from sources of ignition. Seal containers tightly when not in use.
Incompatibilities: Strong oxidizers and excessive heat sources can cause decomposition
Hygiene Practices: Wash thoroughly after handling, especially before eating, drinking, or smoking
Exposure Controls and Personal Protection
Occupational Exposure Limits: No designated exposure limits set for corn germ. Nuisance dust limits may apply (e.g. ACGIH TLV – 10 mg/m3 total dust)
Engineering Controls: Employ local exhaust ventilation when handling large volumes
Personal Protective Equipment: Use protective gloves and safety glasses under dusty conditions. Wear a dust mask or NIOSH-approved respirator if handling large quantities or during cleaning operations
Eye Protection: Safety goggles
Hand Protection: Protective gloves
Skin Protection: Protective clothing if significant contact expected
Physical and Chemical Properties
Appearance: Yellow to light brown, granular or flake-like solid
Odor: Mild, characteristic of corn
pH: Not applicable for solid
Melting Point/Range: Not applicable
Boiling Point/Range: Not applicable
Flash Point: Not easily flammable in granulated form; fine dust may ignite
Density: Approximately 0.6–0.8 g/cm3
Solubility: Insoluble in water
Explosive Properties: Dust may be explosive when dispersed in air
Other Data: Stable under recommended storage
Stability and Reactivity
Stability: Stable under normal ambient and anticipated storage conditions
Reactivity: Not reactive under normal use
Incompatible Materials: Strong oxidizers, sources of ignition, excessive moisture
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Thermal decomposition can yield smoke, carbon monoxide, CO2, and trace organic substances
Conditions to Avoid: Exposure to heat, sparks, open flame, or dust cloud formation
Toxicological Information
Acute Effects: Eye and respiratory tract irritation possible from dust exposure
Chronic Effects: Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of airborne dust may affect respiratory health
Ingestion Toxicity: Not toxic when ingested as food or feed within recommended limits
Skin Sensitization: Rare; contact dermatitis unlikely but possible
Carcinogenicity: No known risk based on industry data and regulatory reviews
Additional Notes: Individuals with allergies to corn products should avoid handling bulk material without protection
Ecological Information
Ecotoxicity: Not considered toxic to aquatic or terrestrial organisms
Persistence and Degradability: Readily biodegradable; component materials are natural and decompose under normal environmental conditions
Bioaccumulation Potential: Nil
Mobility in Soil: Limited mobility, will physically degrade and be incorporated by soil microbes
Other Adverse Effects: Large quantities may attract insects or wildlife, potentially disrupting ecosystems if released excessively
Disposal Considerations
Waste Treatment Methods: Dispose as organic waste or by composting where practical
Additional Disposal Guidelines: Follow local, regional, national, and international regulations regarding solid organic waste
Hazardous Waste Classification: Not regulated as hazardous waste under most jurisdictions
Special Handling: Avoid dispersion as dust, prevent release to water bodies
Transport Information
UN Number: Not assigned
Proper Shipping Name: Corn Germ, not regulated
Hazard Class: Non-hazardous for transport, but treat as combustible dust in bulk
Packing Group: Not regulated
Special Transport Precautions: Avoid puncture or damage to bags or containers to reduce dust
Regulatory Notes: No specific labeling or documentation required for standard shipment
Environmental Hazards: None known for normal shipments
Regulatory Information
Federal Regulations: Not listed as a controlled or toxic substance under major regulatory lists (OSHA, TSCA, CERCLA, SARA, etc.)
International Inventories: Generally considered a food/feed agricultural product and not subject to special notification
Labeling Requirements: None beyond standard agricultural or commodity statements
Other Standards: Meets requirements for general consumer and industrial use as a food/feed material, provided sourcing and processing comply with food safety and traceability regulations
