Popcorn From 3600 B.c. To Today

The inventories of most pantries in America include at least one box of popcorn. Probably the most popular snack food in the United States, this simple favorite has become a staple associated with movie munching both at the theater and at home. With easy, quick, and mess-free popcorn preparation now possible with ready-to-microwave packages that are already flavored, popcorn is an anytime snack for work, school, and home.

Popcorn's history extends far into the past, with evidence of its existence as long ago as 3600 B.C. in what is now New Mexico. One can only imagine the surprise of the first Native American who tossed an ear of dried maize onto hot coals to experience the explosion of hundreds of little fluffy, flowery puffs flying through the air. No doubt a real hit with the kids even then. 16th and 17th century English learned of the wonders of popcorn from the east coast Native Americans, with popped corn being a treat at the original Thanksgiving feast. Early colonists enjoyed it with cream and sugar, inventing the original puffed breakfast cereal.

Contemporary popcorn snacking popularity, relative to its 5,000 year history, can be traced to the Great Depression years. It was inexpensive and affordable, becoming the snack of choice, especially in movie theaters. World War II saw the rationing of sugar, diminishing the availability of candy and other sweets, resulting in a three-fold increase in the consumption of popcorn.

Popcorn snacking reduced subsequent to WWII, but has forever remained a movie theater staple. The introduction of quick and easy to prepare Jiffy Pop in 1959 with its self-contained foil pan that puffed up as the corn popped brought the theater popcorn experience into American TV watching homes, increasing its popularity once again. The modern microwave popcorn industry enjoys millions of dollars of sales each year.

Popcorn enjoyment is not limited to microwave offerings. Today's gourmet popcorn fare advances the humble popcorn of yesteryear to new foodie heights. The common butter and salt flavoring is now joined by exotic and savory spice selections for an amazing variety of flavors. Arguably begun by the caramel coated Cracker Jack popcorn and peanut treat that was introduced in 1893 at the Chicago World's Fair, candy popcorn coatings take popcorn into a deliciously sweet direction. Chocolate covered popcorn marries the rich indulgence of chocolate with the light, airy texture of popcorn for a particularly delightful treat that is guaranteed to please.