Popcorn 101: A Comprehensive Guide to What Popcorn Is

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated September 11, 2022

What is popcorn?

Popcorn is a type of corn that’s been popped or “popped” (past tense) for eating. It’s a whole grain and a great source of fiber, protein, and antioxidants. It’s a delicious snack and a popular choice at movie theaters.

Let’s look at everything you need to know about this delicious treat.

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Popcorn: The Explosive Grain That Packs a Punch

Popcorn is a type of maize, also known as corn, that is scientifically classified as Zea mays everta. It is a variety of corn that has a hard, moisture-sealed hull with a dense starchy endosperm inside. The hull contains a small amount of moisture, and when the kernel is heated, the moisture turns to steam and becomes pressurized. This pressure builds until the hull ruptures, allowing the starchy endosperm to expand and puff up into the familiar white, solid, and fluffy popcorn we all know and love.

Where Does Popcorn Come From?

Popcorn originates from wild maize that was first cultivated in Mexico over 9,000 years ago. It was a staple foodstuff for many Native American tribes and was introduced to European settlers in the 16th century. Today, popcorn is grown in many parts of the world, including the United States, China, and Argentina.

Types of Popcorn

There are many different types of popcorn, but the most commonly known varieties are white and yellow. The color of the popcorn depends on the type of corn used to produce it. Other types of popcorn include black, red, and even multi-colored varieties. The hulls of these different types of popcorn can also range in color, from white to black.

How is Popcorn Produced?

Popcorn is produced by growing a specific type of corn that has a hard, moisture-sealed hull. The kernels are harvested and dried, and then they are usually heated in a pan or microwave until they pop. The popping mechanism can be triggered by heat, pressure, or even sound waves. Once the popcorn is popped, it can be seasoned with a variety of flavors, including butter, salt, and cheese.

Names for Popcorn in Different Languages

Popcorn is known by many different names in different languages, including:

• Melayu: Jagung berpok
• Nederlands: Popcorn
• 日本語: ポップコーン
• Norsk bokmål: Popcorn
• Norsk nynorsk: Popcorn
• Occitano: Popcorn
• Oʻzbekcha: Popkorn
• Polski: Popcorn
• Português: Pipoca
• Română: Porumb expandat
• Runa Simi: Popcorn
• Русский: Попкорн
• Simple English: Popcorn
• Slovenščina: Pokovka
• Srpski: Kokice
• Uyghurche: Popkorn
• Tiếng Việt: Bắp rang bơ

No matter what it’s called, popcorn is a beloved snack that has been enjoyed for thousands of years. So the next time you’re snacking on some popcorn, remember the scientific process that allows it to transform from a hard kernel into a fluffy, delicious treat.

The Fascinating History of Popcorn

Popcorn began to increase in popularity in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It was sold as a new type of food, and soon theaters started installing poppers to sell popcorn to movie-goers. Popcorn was a cheap and easy food to make, and it quickly became a common snack food.

Popcorn Goes Overseas

During World War II, Americans sent popcorn overseas to their troops. Popcorn became known as a specific food that Americans ate, and its presence was felt all over the world. Soon after the war, popcorn became even more popular, and it was featured in many movies and TV shows.

Popcorn Today

Today, popcorn is still an important food, and it is eaten all over the world. It is an excellent snack food, and it is typically sold at a low price. Popcorn is also a great way to store grain, as it can be prepared and stored for a long time. Popcorn is also an ideal food for making other foods, such as popcorn balls and caramel popcorn.

Interesting Facts About Popcorn

• Popcorn is actually a specific type of corn, known as “zea mays everta.”
• Popcorn kernels are smaller and harder than other types of corn.
• Popcorn has a higher degree of moisture than other types of corn, which is why it pops.
• Popcorn is one of the few foods that can be ground into a fine powder and still pop.
• The highest number of popcorn kernels popped in one minute is 1,060.
• Popcorn is a whole grain food and is considered a healthy snack when prepared without added sugar or salt.

The Science Behind Popping Popcorn

Popcorn is a special type of maize or corn that is designed to pop when exposed to heat. The kernel contains a small amount of water, protein, and starch. When the kernel is heated, the water inside turns to steam, and the pressure builds up inside the hull. The pressure eventually becomes too high, causing the hull to break open and the kernel to explode, turning into the familiar fluffy pieces we know as popcorn.

The Popping Mechanism

The process of popping popcorn involves a delicate balance of moisture, heat, and pressure. Here’s how it works:

• When popcorn kernels are introduced to heat, the moisture inside the kernel turns to steam, which creates pressure inside the hull.
• As the pressure inside the hull builds, the hull becomes harder and harder until it reaches its breaking point.
• Once the hull breaks, the pressure inside the kernel drops suddenly, causing the starch and protein inside to expand and turn into the fluffy popcorn we know and love.

The Role of Temperature and Moisture

The temperature and moisture content of the popcorn kernels are crucial factors in determining how well they will pop. Here are some things to consider:

• Popcorn kernels should be stored in a cool, dry place to keep them from getting too moist.
• If popcorn kernels are too dry, they won’t pop entirely, and you’ll end up with a lot of unpopped kernels.
• If popcorn kernels are too moist, they can become moldy and won’t pop well.
• Generally, popcorn pops best at a temperature range of 400-460°F.

The History of Popcorn Popping

Popcorn has been around for thousands of years, but the invention of the popcorn machine in the late 1800s revolutionized the way we make and sell popcorn. Here are some key points:

• The first popcorn machine was invented by Charles Cretors in 1885.
• Popcorn vendors used to attract customers by driving around in horse-drawn wagons with popcorn machines powered by steam engines.
• Today, popcorn is usually popped in large, heavy-duty machines designed specifically for the purpose.
• The quality of the popcorn kernels you buy is an important factor in the quality of the popcorn you’ll get.
• Different varieties of popcorn have different levels of moisture content, which can affect how well they pop.

Tips for Popping Perfect Popcorn

Here are some tips to help you improve your popcorn-popping game:

• Use a heavy-bottomed pan or pot to distribute heat evenly.
• Add a little oil to the pan to help the kernels pop and to prevent them from burning.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan with kernels, or they won’t have enough room to expand.
• Shake the pan occasionally to keep the kernels moving and to prevent them from burning.
• Be careful when handling the pan, as it can get very hot.
• Remove the pan from the heat as soon as the popping slows down to prevent the popcorn from burning.
• Add salt or other seasonings to the popcorn while it’s still hot to help the flavor stick.

Popcorn Cooking Methods: From Traditional to Gourmet

Popcorn is a versatile snack that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some traditional methods for cooking popcorn:

• Stovetop: This is the most common method for cooking popcorn. Heat oil in a saucepan or pot, add popcorn kernels, cover with a lid, and shake the pan over a burner until the popping slows down. Then, sprinkle lightly with salt or add butter to taste.
• Microwave: Place popcorn kernels in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid or plastic wrap, and microwave for 2-3 minutes until the popping slows down. Then, sprinkle lightly with salt or add butter to taste.
• Air popper: This method uses hot air to pop the kernels, resulting in a healthier snack. Simply pour the kernels into the air popper and let it do its job. Then, sprinkle lightly with salt or add butter to taste.

Gourmet Cooking Methods

Popcorn is not just a snack, it’s an art form. Here are some gourmet cooking methods for creating new and exciting popcorn flavors:

• Sweet popcorn: Add a layer of caramel or chocolate sauce to the popcorn and sprinkle with sugar or cinnamon.
• Rice popcorn: Mix rice with popcorn kernels and pop them together for a unique texture and flavor.
• Specialty popcorn: Companies employ scientists to constantly improve and create new strains and hybrids of corn kernels to make gourmet popcorn. Some of the known varieties include flint, Indian, and cob corn.
• Larger kernels: Some companies sell larger kernels called “mushroom” or “butterfly” popcorn, which are perfect for coating with sauces or seasoning.
• Popcorn decoration: Popcorn can be used as a decoration for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts.

No matter how you choose to cook your popcorn, it’s a delicious and healthy snack that can be enjoyed anytime.

From Seed to Snack: The Process of Growing Popcorn Kernels

• Popcorn kernels are a type of corn kernel that is specifically grown to pop and make delicious snacks.
• There are different types of popcorn kernels available, including mushroom, butterfly, and super mushroom varieties.
• When selecting a popcorn seed, it is critical to choose a variety that is fertile and able to grow in your area.

Planting and Growing

• Popcorn seeds are planted in the earth and require water, sunlight, and nutrients to grow.
• The seed contains a small, lightweight piece of material that appears tough and hard to eat.
• As the plant grows, the kernel inside the seed begins to develop and fill with starch molecules.
• The surrounding material of the kernel provides a protective coat that helps to trap steam inside during the popping process.

Inbreeding and Selective Breeding

• To create the best popcorn kernels, farmers use a process known as inbreeding to produce plants with desirable traits.
• This process involves selecting and breeding plants with the highest level of starch and the best popping ability.
• Selective breeding has also been used to create different colors and sizes of popcorn kernels, including deep red, black, and baby blue.

Harvesting and Processing

• Once the popcorn kernels are fully grown, they are harvested and dried to remove any excess moisture.
• The final product is a hard, tough kernel that contains a high level of starchy material.
• To make popcorn, the kernel is heated in oil or air until it reaches its optimum temperature and pops open.
• The popped kernel is then coated with butter or other ingredients to create a delicious snack.

Buying and Serving

• Popcorn kernels are available for purchase in many local stores and online.
• When buying popcorn kernels, it is essential to check the expiration date and ensure that the kernels are fresh.
• To serve popcorn, simply heat the kernels in a pan or popcorn machine until they pop and enjoy!

Popcorn and Your Health: Separating Fact from Fiction

Popcorn is often touted as a healthy snack, but is it really? Here’s what you need to know:

• Popcorn is a whole grain, which means it contains all parts of the grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. This makes it a good source of fiber and other nutrients.
• However, not all popcorn is created equal. Some brands and products contain added sugar, salt, or other unhealthy ingredients that can negate the health benefits.
• Additionally, the way popcorn is prepared can have a big impact on its healthfulness. Popcorn that is loaded with butter or other high-fat extras can quickly become a high-calorie, high-fat snack.
• That being said, plain, air-popped popcorn can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet. It’s low in calories and fat, and provides a satisfying crunch.
• Popcorn also contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants that have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
• Some studies have even suggested that eating popcorn may help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
• However, it’s important to note that the scientific research on popcorn and health is still limited, and more studies are needed to fully understand the potential benefits.
• When shopping for popcorn, look for plain, unflavored varieties with minimal added ingredients. Avoid products that are loaded with sugar, salt, or other unhealthy extras.
• If you want to add flavor to your popcorn, try adding a little bit of salt or other seasonings, or drizzling it with a small amount of olive oil.
• Keep in mind that popcorn should be enjoyed in moderation, just like any other food. Eating too much popcorn, or consuming it in addition to other high-calorie snacks, can lead to excess calorie intake and weight gain.

Popcorn and Your Body

While popcorn can be a healthy snack option, it’s important to be aware of the potential safety risks associated with this food.

• Popcorn can be a choking hazard, especially for young children or older adults. To reduce the risk of choking, make sure popcorn is prepared properly and consumed slowly.
• Some types of microwave popcorn contain a chemical called diacetyl, which has been linked to a condition called “popcorn lung” in workers who were exposed to high levels of the chemical. While the risk to consumers is currently considered low, it’s still a good idea to choose popcorn products that do not contain diacetyl.
• Popcorn kernels can also pose a potential safety risk if they are not popped properly. Unpopped kernels can cause dental damage or even break teeth if bitten down on.
• To prepare popcorn safely, follow the instructions on the package carefully, and make sure to remove any unpopped kernels before consuming.

Choosing the Best Popcorn

With so many types of popcorn available, it can be hard to know which one to choose. Here are some tips to help you find the ideal product:

• Look for popcorn that is labeled as “whole grain” or “100% whole grain” to ensure you are getting the full nutritional benefits.
• Avoid popcorn products that are loaded with added sugars, salt, or other unhealthy ingredients.
• Choose plain, unflavored popcorn whenever possible, and add your own seasonings to control the flavor and nutrition level.
• If you prefer flavored popcorn, look for products that use natural ingredients and avoid artificial flavors or colors.
• Consider trying different types of popcorn, such as heirloom varieties or popcorn made from different types of grains, to find the one that best fits your taste preferences and nutritional needs.
• When preparing popcorn, opt for air-popping or using a small amount of oil to keep the calorie and fat content under control.

Remember, popcorn can be a healthy and delicious snack option when prepared and consumed in the right way. By following these tips and choosing the best popcorn products, you can enjoy all the benefits of this tasty treat without compromising your health.

Conclusion

So there you have it- everything you need to know about popcorn. It’s a delicious treat that’s been enjoyed for thousands of years. 

You can’t go wrong with popcorn as a snack, especially when it’s so easy to make at home. So go ahead and enjoy this wonderful treat!

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

Try it out for free with Kindle Unlimited:

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.