It’s not surprising that popcorn is one of the most popular snacks in the world. Though generations have long savored this fluffy and delectable snack, have you ever pondered how popcorn is made? Zea mays everta, or popcorn, is a variety of corn that is not the same as the corn we eat from the cob or use in cooking. A unique variety of corn called popcorn has a hard outer shell that traps moisture within until it is cooked, causing it to pop when heated.
The indigenous people of Central and South America are credited for discovering popcorn, which has been present for thousands of years. Popcorn was utilized for a variety of purposes, including religious events as well as the decoration of garments and headdresses. The oldest popcorn ears have ever been found were found in New Mexico and are thought to be 5,600 years old.
So, how is popcorn produced commercially? The procedure is quite straightforward but fascinating. The cornfields’ kernels are first collected, then dried and cleaned. The kernels are then placed in sizable industrial poppers, which heat the kernels with hot air until they pop. After popping, the kernels are separated and evaluated according to size and quality.
How does popcorn pop, though? Popcorn is distinct from other varieties of corn because of its distinctive structure. A tough outer shell surrounds each kernel of popcorn, keeping moisture inside. As the kernel is cooked, the moisture within converts to steam, applying pressure to the hard shell until it ultimately explodes and becomes the fluffy snack we all adore.
In conclusion, popcorn is made from a unique variety of maize that pops when heated and has a tough outer shell. Since it has been a favored snack for so long, popcorn has been savored for thousands of years. Popcorn is easily made in factories by first drying and cleaning the kernels, then heating them in sizable industrial poppers. So, keep its lengthy and fascinating history in mind the next time you enjoy a bowl of popcorn.