Category: Food > Popcorn
Popcorn has a history that dates back thousands of years, with its origins traced to ancient civilizations in the Americas. Archaeologists have discovered popcorn kernels in caves in New Mexico that are around 5,600 years old, making it one of the oldest snack foods known to humanity. The unique structure of popcorn kernels, with a hard outer shell and a starchy interior, allows them to pop when heated. When the temperature reaches about 356°F (180°C), the moisture inside the kernel turns to steam, building pressure until the kernel explodes, transforming into the fluffy snack we enjoy today. This fascinating popping process not only makes popcorn a fun treat but also highlights its long-standing cultural significance, from being used in rituals by Indigenous peoples to its eventual rise as a popular snack at movie theaters in the 20th century.