Popcorn is a type of corn that is a popular snack food in the United States. Popcorn has smaller kernels than other types of corn, and the kernels are very hard. Popcorn is a good source of dietary fiber and, when eaten plain, is low in calories.
A popcorn kernel has a hard outer shell that surrounds a soft, moist, starchy center. When a kernel is heated, its moisture turns rapidly to steam. The steam builds up pressure inside the shell until the shell bursts. The steam is quickly released with a small explosion that turns the kernel inside-out. The soft center expands and becomes filled with air. Popcorn pops best when kernels contain about 13.5 per cent moisture. Kernels expand to 30 to 40 times their original size when popped.
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Popcorn is probably native to Central America and is one of the oldest forms of corn. American Indians grew popcorn for more than 1,000 years before the arrival of European explorers in the 1400’s and 1500’s. Indians used popcorn for food, for decoration, and in religious ceremonies. Today, the United States grows nearly all the world’s popcorn. Indiana, Nebraska, and Illinois lead the states in popcorn production.
