The History and Evolution of Popcorn

Introduction

• Popcorn is known for its transformation from tough seeds to cloud-like puffs.
• All modern corn, including popcorn, is derived from a tall grass called teosinte.

Origins of Popcorn

• Indigenous people in southern Mexico began breeding teosinte around 9,000 years ago.
• Teosinte originally produced 5-12 small kernels with hard shells (pericarps).
• Certain varieties of teosinte had kernels that exploded when heated.

The Popping Process

• Water and starch within the kernel are sealed by the pericarp.
• Heating turns moisture to steam, increasing pressure inside the kernel.
• Pressure eventually bursts the pericarp, forming foam that cools to become popcorn.
• The process releases aromatic compounds.

Development and Spread

• Indigenous Americans cultivated other maize varieties alongside poppable corn.
• By the late 1400s, Indigenous people prepared corn in various ways, with popcorn being a minor part.
• European colonizers documented the use of toasted or parched popcorn in Aztec culture.

Popcorn in Europe and America

• Initially, European colonizers were reluctant to cultivate popcorn.
• "Wire over the fire" baskets in 1837 improved the popping process.
• Popcorn became popular as a low-cost snack.

The Rise of Popcorn

• The 1893 World’s Fair introduced the first popcorn machine.
• Popcorn became associated with U.S. city street vendors.

Popcorn and Movie Theaters

• Originally, popcorn was not sold in movie theaters, seen as low-brow.
• The Great Depression changed this, with popcorn becoming an inexpensive luxury.
• Popcorn sales now contribute significantly to theater profits.

Modern Day Popcorn

• Microwavable popcorn launched in the 1980s, boosting popularity.
• Numerous popcorn varieties are grown, with distinct shapes like "mushroom" and "butterfly."
• Kernels have been bred for increased poppability, with expansion rates doubling in the last century.

Conclusion

• Popcorn has evolved significantly and remains a staple snack.

Acknowledgment

• Video support by Marriott Hotels, celebrating curiosity in travel.