Popcorn is a delicious, savory treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
But, where does this tasty snack come from?
The answer may surprise you! Popcorn comes from a similar type of corn as our beloved field corn, or sweetcorn, but with one key difference: when heated to just the right amount, it pops!
Zea mays everta is the only type of corn that has this quality. Try heating up other kinds and you’ll end up with them stuck to the bottom of your pan.
A Brief History of Popcorn
The discovery of corn was not as recent a feat for humans. Archaeologists have discovered that people have known about popcorn for thousands of years. In Mexico, for example, they’ve found remnants of popcorn that dates to around 3600 BC!
The oldest recorded reference talking about a popped kernel comes from 1500BC when an Egyptian poem mentions pieces popping inside oil-filled bronze vessels on hot coals – this may be how our ancestors got ahead with their invention back then!
Where is Popcorn Grown?
Where do popcorn kernels come from? It typically grows on acreage found primarily in Kentucky, Indiana, Iowa, Illinois Nebraska. One 30-acre plot can produce around 3 million kernels per year!
Is Popcorn Made from Sweet Corn?
Traditionally, popcorn has been a staple food for farmers in the Midwest. Though it is originally from Central America or Mesoamerica, today’s American model of agriculture and distribution makes the USA the world’s largest producer.
No, popcorn is not made from sweet corn. Popcorn can only be made from the Zea mays everta variety of corn, which is not the same kind found in sweet corn.
Does popcorn come from corn?
Popcorn is a type of corn. There are six types of corn in total:
- flint corn
- dent corn
- pod corn
- popcorn
- flour corn
- sweet corn
Is popcorn made from corn?
Yes! Popcorn is a specific type of corn that is unique as it’s the only type of corn that pops!
Alex Cooper is a lover of all things popcorn. He especially enjoys the salty, buttery goodness of movie theater popcorn. In fact, he could probably eat it every day and never get tired of it. Alex also loves spending time with his friends and family, and he is always up for a good laugh.
