All About Popcorn

What makes popcorn pop

Popcorn has fascinated people for centuries.  It's amazing to see these small kernels explode into big fluffy popcorn that we know and love.  But how and why does this happen?

The short answer is water.  How does water cause popcorn to pop you ask?  Let me explain.

Every popcorn kernel contains a small amount of water inside.  The moisture content of popcorn kernels is around 14%.  In fact the amount of moisture in the kernel is what makes it a 'popcorn' kernel.  Only certain varieties of corn can actually pop.  

The magic happens when heat is applied and the water inside turns to steam and starts building up pressure.  When the kernels reach a temperature of around 350 degrees the pressure is enough to cause the kernel to explode.  

The hull of the kernel is turned inside out and the soft starch inside the kernel expands rapidly and forms the fluffy treat called popcorn.  When popping, a popcorn kernel can expand up to 50 times it's original size!

Quite an amazing feat for such a small unassuming kernel :-)