Best Rated Popcorn Popper

Now Enjoy Eating Movie Theater Popcorn At Home!

Everyone in my family just loves popcorn. I am sure it’s the same in your family as well. When my family members come home from the movies, they always say to me how come our popcorn doesn’t taste like it does at the movie theater. This is where the best rated popcorn popper will help you make popcorn at home just they do at the movies.

Here are interesting facts about popcorn. Popcorn in the early 1800s, Americans consumed popcorn as a breakfast cereal. It was eaten with milk and a sweetener. Also, the average American consumes about 72 quarts of popcorn a year. We also consume 17.3 billion quarts of popcorn per year. One final fact, January 19^th is National Popcorn Day. Now, you can celebrate that day with the best tasting popcorn at home just like it is at the movies.

To make popcorn just like it is at the movie houses, knowing the kernels, oil and seasonings they use would be helpful. This article reveals the secret ingredient movie theaters use, kernels, and oil when popping their popcorn and selling it movie goers like us.

Table of Topics

• Video – How To Make Movie Style Popcorn At Home
• Top Rated Popcorn Poppers
• Shop Top Rated Popcorn Poppers
• Shop Home Theater Popcorn Supplies
• Buying Guide For Popcorn Poppers

Video – How To Make Movie Style Popcorn At Home

Below is a short video on how to make movie theater popcorn at home. The ingredients are revealed so you too can make great tasting popcorn just like you were at the movies.

Top Rated Popcorn Poppers

Below are some of the best rated popcorn poppers that can help you to achieve the theater popcorn taste.

FIRST PLACE WINNER

 

#1. Cook N Home 6 Quart Stovetop Popper

 

Model: 02626 ASIN: B07PNLP3J9 Ratings: 441 Score: 4.6

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This popcorn popper has a 6-quart capacity and a nice manual turning handle so the kernels won’t get burned. Works on all types of stoves accept for induction. It’s made of aluminum for even heat distribution during popping.

PROS

• 6 quart capacity
• Turning handle so popcorn doesn’t burn or stick
• Steam vents on lid keeps popcorn crisp not chewy
• Even heat distribution
• Popper made out of aluminum

CONS

• Does not work on induction stoves

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Cook N Home
• Color: Silver
• Weight: 1.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 16.75 x 9.25 x 7.5 inches
• Size: 6 Quarts
• Material: Aluminum
• Lid: Steam Vented
• Gears: Durable all metal

SECOND PLACE WINNER

 

#2. AICOOK RH-906 Popcorn Popper

 

Model: RH-906 ASIN: B083LFLM7W Ratings: 93 Score: 4.5

This electric popper has a 6 quart capacity with 800 watts of power. Has its own serving bowl, vented lid to let moisture escape, and its dishwasher safe for cleaning.

PROS

• 6 quart capacity or 24 cups of popped popcorn
• Motorized stirring rod
• Vented lid
• Easy to clean and it’s dishwasher safe
• Lid acts as a serving bowl

CONS

• Price
• Made in China

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: AICOOK
• Color: Red/Black
• Weight: 3.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 13.98 x 11.81 x 9.84 inches
• Lid: Transparent
• Heating Surface: Teflon
• Watts: 800
• Voltage: 110V – 120V
• Frequency: 60 Hz
• Warranty: 2-Years Limited

THIRD PLACE WINNER

 

#3. Great Northern Stovetop Popcorn Popper

 

Model: 6251 SS ASIN: B00608D66G Ratings: 2,775 Score: 4.4

This popper has a 5 quart capacity. It has wood handles and knobs that won’t get hot. Spinner mechanism prevents burning and kernels from sticking. Lid is vented for moisture to escape curing popping to keep popcorn crisp.

PROS

• Easy pour lid
• Vented lid
• Wood safety handles
• Easy to clean
• 5 quart capacity

CONS

• Made in China
• Does not work on induction stoves

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Great Norther Popcorn
• Color: Silver
• Weight: 2 lbs.
• Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 8 inches
• Vented Lid: Yes
• Size: 5 Quarts
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Warranty: 1-Year Limited

HONORABLE MENTION

 

#4. West Bend 82515 Theater Style Popper

 

Model: 82515 ASIN: B01HRGJE88 Ratings: 713 Score: 4.5

This theater looking style popcorn machine has 480 watts of power and cooks 5-6 servings in minutes. Non-stick coated kettle and removable lid makes it easy for cleaning.

PROS

• 4 quart capacity or 16 cups
• Non-stick surface on kettle
• Kettle removable for easy cleaning
• Tilt door for easy serving

CONS

• Price
• Made in China
• Some assembly required

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: West Bend
• Color: Red
• Weight: 7.5 lbs.
• Dimensions:27 x 10.87 x 17.72 Inches
• Kettle Size: 4 Oz.
• Capacity: 4 Quarts or 16 Cups
• Material Type: Plastic
• Batch Time: 5 Minutes
• Includes: Measuring Cup, Spoon, Popcorn Scope
• Kettle Type: Non-Stick Surface
• Watts: 480
• Volts: 120
• Warranty: 1-Year Limited

#5. Great Northern 83-DT5628 Popcorn Machine

 

Model: 83-DT5628 ASIN: B002Z9GDYG Ratings: 1,996 Score: 4.4

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This theatre antique looking popper provides all you need to make great tasting movie popcorn. It has 860 watts of power makes between 2 to 3 gallons of popcorn per batch. It has tempered glass and a built-in warmer light along with a reject kernel tray.

PROS

• Makes large amounts of popcorn per batch
• Reject kernel tray
• Built-in warmer light
• Great for churches, large parties and schools
• Easy to clean with water
• Antique style machine

CONS

• Price
• Heavy and is not easy to move around
• Some assembly is required

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Great Northern Popcorn
• Color: Red
• Weight: 31 lbs.
• Dimensions: 13.6 x 14.4 x 22.8 inches
• Watts: 860
• Volts: 110
• Control Switches: 3 (Lightwarmer, Stirrer, Pot Heater)
• Reject Kernel Tray: Yes
• Batch Time: 10 Minutes
• Kettle Size: 8 Ounces
• Warranty: 5-Years
• In The Box: Machine, 3 Plastic Serving Cups, 50 Popcorn Bags, Measuring Cups, Popcorn Scope

#6. Franklin’s Whirley Pop Popper

 

Model: FBA_COMINHKPR107344 ASIN: B01DOF8Y78 Ratings: 603 Score: 4.3

This popper has a 6 quart capacity and a metal stirring design to prevent kernels from burning and sticking. Wooden handles to prevent burning hands. The popper will give you the movie theater taste. Easy to clean up as well.

PROS

• Wooden handles
• 6 quart capacity
• Stirring design prevents kernels from sticking and burning
• Simple clean-up
• Works on all types of stoves including induction

CONS

• Price
• Made in China and assembled in the USA

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn
• Color: Silver
• Weight: 2.64 lbs.
• Dimensions: 11.6 x 7.7 x 16.6 inches
• Capacity: 6 Quarts
• Gears: Made of metal
• Warranty: Lifetime

#7. West Bend Stir Crazy Electric Popper

 

Model: 82505 ASIN: B00KL8SM92 Ratings: 4,876 Score: 4.3

This model has a vented cover to prevent soggy popcorn and has a 6 quart capacity. The lid also serves as a serving bowl. Motorized stirring rod helps prevent kernels from burning. It has 850 watts and is easy to clean.

PROS

• Motorized stirring rod prevents burning
• 6 quart capacity
• Batch time 4-5 minutes
• Non-stick coating for easy cleanup
• Lid becomes a serving bowl

CONS

• Price
• Made in China

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: The Legacy Companies USA
• Color: Red
• Weight: 3.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 11.5 x 11.7 x 7.5 inches
• Voltage: 120
• Type: Electric
• Watts: 850
• Uses Oil: Yes
• Lid Capacity: 6 Quarts or 24 Cups
• Batch Popping Time: 4-5 Minutes
• Heating Surface: Non-Stick
• Warranty: 1-Year Limited

 #8. Great Northern Little Bambino Tabletop Popper

 

Model: 6072 GNP ASIN: B0057XO99I Ratings: 883 Score: 4.3

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This tabletop electric popper has 330 watts of power to pop up to 8 to 10 cups in one batch. Great for small families. Has a removable catching tray that doubles for serving.

PROS

• Removable serving tray
• Two control switches
• Kettle handle for dumping kernels is on outside of unit
• Warming light

CONS

• Price
• Some assembly is required

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Great Northern Popcorn
• Color: Black
• Weight: 12.57 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.75 x 11 x 18.75 inches
• Kettle Size:5 Ounces
• Warming Light: 10 Watts, Included
• Included: 2 Popping Kettle Hangers, Popcorn Tray, Measuring Spoon, Measuring Cup
• Warranty: 1-Year Limited

#9. Great Northern Antique Lincoln Popper

 

Model: 6015 ASIN: B000QWCAB4 Ratings: 608 Score: 4.3

This antique electric popper pops up to 3 gallons of popcorn in one batch. It comes with an 8 ounce stainless steel kettle, reject kernel tray, and has a built-in warmer light. It uses 860 watts of power.

PROS

• Made with heavy-duty powder coated steel
• One batch makes 3 gallons
• Reject kernel tray
• 3 switches
• Unique antique style design
• Great for large gatherings at church, school or office

CONS

• Price
• Made in China
• Some assembly is required

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Great Northern Popcorn
• Color: Black
• Weight: 42.7  lbs.
• Dimensions: 18 x 21 x 25 Inches
• Kettle Size: 8 Ounces
• 3 Switches: Warmer, Stirrer, Pot Heater
• Watts: 860 (Commercial Quality)
• Volts: 110
• Material: Stainless Steel Construction
• Warranty: 5-Years Limited
• Included: Kernel & Oil Scoop, 3 Plastic Service Cups, 50 Paper Popcorn Bags, & Popcorn Scoop

#10. Cuisinart Electric Classic Style Popper

 

Model: CPM-28 ASIN: B01JCECNN6 Ratings: 146 Score: 4.3

This classic style popcorn popper will amaze your friends. Door and non-stick kettle are removable for easy cleaning. Makes up to 10 cups of popcorn per batch. Has 500 watts of power.

PROS

• Motorized spinner ensures even cooking
• Door and non-stick kettle are removable for easy cleaning
• Makes up to 10 cups of popcorn or 2 quarts
• Ideal for small families

CONS

• Price
• Some assembly is required
• Flimsy plastic around the base

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Cuisinart
• Color: Red/Black
• Weight: 9.63 lbs.
• Dimensions: 11.75 x 11.75 x 21.88 Inches
• Watts: 500
• Batch Capacity: 10 Cups
• Includes: Popcorn Scope, Kernel Measuring Cup, Oil Measuring Spoon
• Warranty: 3-Years Limited

#11. Time For Treats Poppy Electric Popper

 

Model: VKP1163 ASIN: B01H326A4W Ratings: 35 Score: 4.2

This popper has a 6 quart capacity and 850 watts of power. The lid also can be used as a serving bowl. Stirring rod can be removed for easy cleaning and keeps kernels from burning. Produces popcorn in about 5 minutes.

PROS

• Ventilated lid allows moisture to escape during cooking
• Lid doubles as a serving bowl
• 5 minutes for a 6 quart batch of popcorn
• Motorized stirring rod ensures every kernel get heated evenly with no burning
• Easy cleaning both lid and base

CONS

• Price
• Some has issues with motorized stirring rod

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: VKP Brands
• Color: Black
• Weight: 3.8 lbs.
• Dimensions: 11.25 x 14 x 10 Inches
• Cord Length: 36 Inches
• Cooking Base: Has A Non-Stick Coating
• Material: Plastic
• Watts: 850
• Warranty: 1-Year Limited

#12. Presto 5204 Stirring Electric Popcorn Popper

 

Model: 5204 ASIN: B017EW4958 Ratings: 466 Score: 4.1

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This 6 quart electric popper has 900 watts of power. The non-stick surface makes for easy cleaning. The motorized stirrer keeps the kernels from burning and sticking. Lid doubles as a serving bowl.

PROS

• 6 quart capacity
• Motorized stirrer for evenly heated kernels
• Nonstick popping surface for easy cleaning
• Lid cover also doubles as a serving bowl

CONS

• Price
• Made in China

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Presto
• Color: Black
• Weight: 5.4 lbs.
• Dimensions: 13 x 8 x 13 inches
• Watts: 900
• Volts: 120 AC
• Capacity: 6 Quarts or 24 Cubs
• Material: Plastic
• Hardware Material: Stainless Steel
• Warranty: 1-Year Limited

Shop Best Rated Popcorn Poppers

 

You can shop for the best rated popcorn poppers. Click on any image of interest and you will be taken to Amazon to place the order.

As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualified purchases.

Shop Home Theater Popcorn Supplies

 

In this section you will find popcorn supplies for making popcorn at home. Included are popcorn kernels, coconut oil, seasonings, scoops and paper bags. Now you can make your home popcorn taste just like you get at the movies.

Buying Guide For Popcorn Poppers

You will find some interesting topics all about popcorn and popcorn poppers. How to make home popcorn taste just like you get at the movies. You will also find out some very interesting facts about the oil used in making theater popcorn and the seasonings they use to hook us on eating popcorn.

Buying Guide Table of Topics

Below you will find topics of interest. Just click on topic of interest. You will be taken directly to that section. Or, you can scroll down to read them all.

• Introduction
• Popcorn Kernels Theaters Use
• Movie Theater Oil
• Movie Theater Popcorn Makers
• The Secret Ingredient Is Flavacol
• Other Machine Popper Features
• How Do You Store Popcorn Kernels?
• Can I Freeze Popcorn Kernels?
• Movie Theater Popcorn Recipe
• Does Flavacol Contain Diacetyl
• Why Is Homemade Popcorn So Tough
• Is Coconut Oil Healthy For You
• Popcorn Is Healthy
• Nutrition Facts About Popcorn
• Nutrition Information For Common Toppings
• Digestion
• Popcorn Helps Control Weight
• Conclusion

Introduction

Popcorn is a healthy snack and everyone who has gone to the movies likes to emulate the movie theater popcorn taste. In order to duplicate the movie theater popcorn experience you need to know the kernels, oil, and seasonings they use. Knowing this information you will be able to bring the movie theater popcorn into your home every time you have family movie night, game night or any other celebration.

Popcorn Kernels Theaters Use

There are two types of popcorn kernels on the market you can buy and they are yellow or white. White popcorn has a subtle flavor and is lighter in texture when it’s popped. Yellow popcorn on the other hand is denser and has a nuttier, sweeter flavor. Movie theaters use yellow kernels.

Another difference is the variety of the popped corn and they are butterfly or mushroom kernels. Movie theaters use the butterfly because it pops bigger and looks better in the popping machine. It also pops sturdier and it stands up better to added flavorings like butter and salt.

The mushroom popcorn looks like a mini baseball which is large and round. This type of popcorn can withstand coatings like chocolate and syrup drizzles and the like. The mushroom type of popcorn produces a chewier type of popcorn.

Whether you use yellow or white depends upon your taste. Here is an interesting fact; 99% of all popcorn produced in the United States is the yellow variety.

Depending on what you are going to do with the popped corn will determine which variety you are going to use. If you are adding butter and salt, the butterfly variety works best. If you are adding caramel, chocolate and other flavors, then the mushroom variety works best.

In conclusion, theaters use yellow kernels and the butterfly variety.

Movie Theater Oil

The type of oil you use in making popcorn like the movie theater is important. Theaters use refined coconut oil. Some may use canola oil or a combination of both for a unique taste.  However, coconut oil is the number one choice today. The refined coconut oil has beta carotene in it and it’s the type of oil most movie theaters use. The difference between refined and unrefined coconut oil is the refined coconut oil removes the coconut flavor from the oil during processing. Unrefined coconut oil retains the coconut flavor which some people like.

You can purchase coconut oil without beta carotene in it. It all depends on which flavor you like.

When popping corn, always melt the oil first than put in the seasonings and then add the kernels. Another way to test that the oil is ready is to place a couple of test kernels in the kettle or pot. When they pop, add the rest of the kernels.

Movie theaters use refined coconut oil with beta carotene in it when popping their popcorn. However, if you like a coconut flavor on your popcorn, use unrefined coconut oil.

Movie Theater Popcorn Makers (Machines)

Generally, when you walk into a movie theater you always see popcorn popping. Thus, creating a great smell which is difficult to pass up in not buying some. The theater popcorn makers are commercial grade units and are very expensive. However, you can get similar models for home use and do not have to break the budget doing it.

As you consider which type of popcorn machine to purchase, be sure to look for one that has a motorized stirrer. This ensures that all kernels get oil and a majority of them will get popped. Also, look for a machine that has an old maid tray to eliminate many of them as possible while popping. This way you will not be serving any to your guests or family members. Old maids can chip teeth. So, it’s important that your unit has this feature.

Any popcorn maker that has a motorized stirrer is a must. Or, there are some stove models in which you stir the kernels as they are popping. Another feature is to ensure there are vents to allow the steam to escape during the popping cycle. This is the main cause why popcorn being tough to chew. Failure to allow the steam to escape. Home machines may not have this feature.

The only other method left for you to try to simulate theater popcorn is to move the pot while it’s popping to get most of the kernels to pop. Be sure to leave a little room at the top to allow the steam to vent.

These units are a lot cheaper and will provide that theater tasting popcorn when used with the proper oil and seasonings.

The Secret Ingredient Is Flavacol

The biggest secret ingredient of theater popcorn are the seasonings they use. The main one they use is Flavacol. This is a special salt seasoning with a buttery flavor that is added before the kernels. The oil is melted first. Then add Flavacol. Allow the mixture to stir a couple of seconds. Then add the kernels. This gives the finished popcorn that yellowish look and great taste.

When using Flavacol for home use, remember a small amount will go a long way. Use about a ½ a teaspoon and add it into the oil. Then add the kernels. A carton of Flavacol will last a long time as it comes in 35 ounce containers. You may have to experiment to determine exactly how much Flavacol to add. It probably depends on the amount of popcorn being popped per batch.

So, if you want that theater popcorn taste at home, you must use Flavacol.

Flavacol measurements table per ounces of kernels:

• 4 oz. of kernels: 1/2 teaspoon of Flavacol
• 6 to 8 oz.: 1 teaspoon of Flavacol
• 12 to 14 oz.: 2 teaspoons of Flavacol
• 16 ounces: 2 1/2 teaspoons of Flavacol
• 20 ounces: 1 tablespoon of Flavacol
• 32 to 36 ounces: 2 tablespoons of Flavacol
• 48 to 52 ounces: 3 tablespoons of Flavacol
• 60 ounces: 3 1/2 tablespoons of Flavacol

These are the recommended amounts of Flavacol to add into a batch of popcorn based on the ounces of kernels used. You may need to experiment here by using a little less or adding a little more. It will all depend upon your taste of the finished product.

For hot air popcorn uses out there, you can add Flavacol to the finished product before serving it to others. When adding Flavacol, be sure to mix it well before serving so most of the popcorn will get some of the seasoning. I would start with 1/4 of a teaspoon.

Other Machine Popper Features

Some nice features to look for on a popcorn maker will be mentioned below.

• Warmer
• Pot Heater
• Stirrer

If you can find a unit that has a warmer, stirrer, and pot heater, this is ideal. It means there are separate switches to control the heat, stir the popcorn and keep the popped popcorn warm.

Some units may only come with the power switch which controls the pot heat. These units will also work. As you increase the features expect to pay a little more for them.

Another feature for home theater popcorn is a vented top. Popcorn as it is being popped is actually letting off steam. Failure to allow this steam to escape, makes the popcorn that is already popped get soggy and tuff or chewy. So, be sure to find models that allow the moisture to escape as the popcorn is popping in the machine.

How Do You Store Popcorn Kernels?

This is important if you want your kernels fresh. Your goal is to prevent the kernels to avoid moisture loss. Popcorn requires between 13% to 15% moisture to pop. Avoiding moisture loss is a key for popcorn to pop. This is why some may have experienced kernels not popping when normally they would. This is a sign of stale popcorn kernels.

The best place to store un-popped kernels is in a cool place like a cupboard. Avoid storing the kernels in the refrigerator. Doing this could dry out the kernels quicker.

The best container to store kernels is an airtight plastic or glass container. It will allow the popcorn to stay fresh for up to two years. Don’t forget to store it at room temperature.

You may be asking can you vacuum seal popcorn kernels. Yes you can. It’s a great way to store sizable portions of kernels in bags and use them only as needed. Another plus it keeps them air-tight

Can I Freeze Popcorn Kernels?

In a short answer, no. It is not best to freeze them. Freezing the popcorn kernels may affect the popping ability of the kernels. However, it is not unsafe to actually store them in the freezer. But, beware that the kernels may not pop like they used to in prior batches. You’ll find yourself throwing away lots of un-popped kernels. Save yourself this aggravation. Store them at room temperature in a plastic or glass jar.

Movie Theater Popcorn Recipe

There is a proper way for you to duplicate the movie theater experience at home on movie night or any other night. You will need to follow the instructions for preparing a batch of popcorn that came with the machine.

Here are some of the basic instructions for making a batch of theater popcorn:

• ½ cup of gourmet yellow corn kernels (Note: Your machine may call for more or less kernels. Follow your machine’s user manual for the correct amount.)
• 1 Tablespoon of un-refined coconut oil with beta carotene. (Any brand is ok)
• ½ Teaspoon of Flavacol seasoning
• *3 Tablespoons of melted butter or butter topping

*This step may be omitted

1. Begin by pre-heating your popcorn machine.
2. Add the oil and let it melt.
3. Add the Flavacol seasoning.
4. Add the kernels and cover.
5. After a few minutes you will hear popping. When the popping slows to 2 to 3 seconds between pops, the cooking is done. Turn off the unit.
6. Empty contents into a bowl.
7. Add the butter to taste.
8. For another batch, start with step 2.
9. Follow the owner’s manual to clean the machine after it cools.

Does Flavacol Contain Diacetyl

Some of you may have heard about the ingredient diacetyl. This ingredient was primarily used as a butter flavor in microwave popcorn. This ingredient was found to be unhealthy when breathed into the lings. Causing some health issues. Flavacol does not contain diacetyl. So, you can use it without any worry about its affect to your health.

Diacetyl symptoms may include a dry cough, shortness of breath when using extra energy, and wheezing. Diacetyl vapors can sting or burn the eyes. Diacetyl can also irritate the skin. If you should experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product immediately.

The largest makers of microwave popcorn have stopped using this ingredient. These brands are ConAgra, General Mills, American Pop Corn Company and Pop Weaver. Also, Act II, Orville Redenbacher, Pop Secret, Pop Weaver, and Jolly Time. You can buy these products without any worry to your health.

However, beware of other products that have a buttery flavor added to them. They may just contain diacetyl.

Why Is Homemade Popcorn So Tough?

What most people don’t realize is popcorn as it is popping actually releases a burst of steam. This steam can get trapped in a popcorn popper with the freshly-popped corn and will make them tough and chewy. So, the answer to this question is whenever you are popping popcorn, don’t cover it while it popping. You need to allow for the steam to escape.

When popping popcorn using a stove be sure that the cover or lid has a little space to allow the steam to escape. This will make the popped kernels to taste better and not tough or chewy.

Some popcorn poppers come with air holes in the top of the lid to allow for the steam to escape.

The bottom line is to ensure your popcorn is not tough and chewy, allow for the air to escape as it’s popping. When looking for popcorn poppers look for this feature.

Is Coconut Oil Healthy For You

You may remember in the late 1980’s coconut oil was declared bad for your health. Many movie theaters had to use a different oil in making popcorn. Many stated coconut oil was bad for your heart because it was a saturated fat and we had to consume less of this fat in our diets.

We can now update you on the news of coconut oil.

Why It’s Healthy

Let’s look at some of the goodness coconut oil provides for our health.

• Fat Is Not All Bad – We know there are good and bad fats we eat. Good fat has lot of healthy potential. It is a source of energy that helps absorb vitamins and minerals. Fat is essential for building cell membranes, improving muscle movement, fighting inflammation and clotting the blood.
• Coconut Oil Is A Saturated Fat – This oil makes popcorn taste delicious and it’s healthy.
• Coconut Oil Benefits – It’s high in medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), is used as a quick source of energy. 2. It has been shown to increase the amount of calories you burn in 24 hours by as much as 5%. 3. Fatty acids in coconut oil are able to kill harmful pathogens in the body like bacteria, fungi and viruses. 4. Coconut oil can help raise your good HDL cholesterol. 5. More and more scientists and chefs and wellness nuts are agreeing: the fats we’ve been told to eat for the past 50 years – the poly-unsaturated, so-called “vegetable” ones – are, in fact, the worst stuff we can put in our bodies. And the fats we’ve been told to never touch – the saturated ones – are actually the healthiest, safest and, in fact, are the least “fattening”.

Popcorn Is Healthy

Popcorn is healthy provided it is limited to few seasonings. Plain popcorn is the healthiest. Below are some reasons why popcorn is healthy and good for you.

A Whole Grain

Everyone knows that whole grains are good for you. Let’s educate you here. The whole grain includes three parts: the germ, the bran and the endosperm. The germ contains the healthy oils, vitamin E, protein, many B vitamins and minerals. The fiber is found in the bran and B vitamins, minerals, protein and antioxidants. The endosperm is primarily composed of starch that has some protein and fiber.

Popcorn corn gives you the benefit of whole grain because you get the benefits from all three components of the whole grain.

Fiber

One benefit of whole grains is fiber. Popcorn provides about 4 grams of dietary fiber for every 4 cups of popped corn. Most Americans do not consume their recommended daily intake of fiber. For men its 38 grams and women is 25 grams a day. Adequate fiber helps you stay regular, lower risk of cardiovascular disease, reduce blood cholesterol and type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar.

Bottom line, popcorn is good for everyone unless you are allergic to corn. Some individuals may experience this allergy.

Polyphenols

The University of Scranton reported a study in 2012 that found the antioxidant concentration of popcorn to be much higher than anticipated. In fact, the study found the concentration of polyphenols in popcorn surpassed that of most fruit. Popcorn is only 4 percent water, compared to the 90 percent water content of most fruits and vegetables, so the polyphenols aren’t diluted at all. These nutrients were found within the hull and so popcorn without the hull may not contain this healthy antioxidant.

According to research in a 2013 issue of Nutrients, polyphenols possess numerous health benefits, including the prevention of degenerative diseases such osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and diabetes. Don’t ditch your fruit just yet, however; popcorn doesn’t have all the vitamins and minerals offered in many fruits.

Air pop or use coconut oil to pop whole kernels. Lightly season it with sea salt or a very small bit of butter, if you can’t eat it any other way.

Nutrition Facts About Popcorn

Popcorn can be a perfect snack for people who are looking to eat healthier or to lose weight. Even if you’re not trying to lose weight, popcorn is whole grain food that offers many of the same benefits of corn, rice, wheat, barley, and oats.

The nutrition information is provided by the USDA based on 3 cups of popcorn (24g) air-popped without added butter, salt, or oil.

• Calories: 93
• Fat:1g
• Sodium:9mg
• Carbohydrates:6g
• Fiber:6g
• Sugars:2g
• Protein: 3g

Micronutrients in Popcorn

Believe it or not, popcorn offers an impressive amount of essential vitamins and minerals. This is based on the reference dietary intake (RDI) issued by the U.S. food and Drug Administration, on a single 3 cup serving of air-popped popcorn.

• Iron: 4.2% of the RDI
• Copper: 13% of the RDI
• Magnesium: 36% of the RDI
• Manganese: 56% of the RDI
• Phosphorus: 36% of the RDI
• Potassium: 2% of the RDI
• Vitamin B1 (thiamine): 7% of the RDI
• Vitamin B3 (niacin): 12% of the RDI
• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): 8% of the RDI
• Zinc: 21% of the RDI

Nutrition Information for Common Toppings

Below are some nutritional information for common toppings on popcorn.

• Popcorn popped in oil: Provides 192 calories and 14 grams of fat per 3 cup serving.
• Butter topping: Adds another 102 calories, 12 grams of fat, 7 grams of saturated fat, and 91 milligrams of sodium.
• Grated parmesan: Adds another 22 calories, 2 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, and 76 milligrams of sodium per tablespoon.

Note: The average movie house popcorn, topped with buttery powder knowns as Flavacol, delivers 20 grams of fat, 300 milligrams of sodium, and 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Digestion

Most of the fiber in popcorn is insoluble, the type that helps keep you regular. Rather than drawing water from the intestines, it builds bulk in stool and speeds the transit time through the intestines. It works much in the same way as psyllium, providing gentle relief of constipation while reducing the risk of hemorrhoids and gut infections.

The fiber in three cups of popcorn is equal to that of one cup of cooked brown rice or oatmeal. While this shouldn’t suggest that popcorn is a reasonable substitute for nutrient-packed whole grains, it does illustrate popcorn’s value in maintaining a healthy balanced diet and good digestion.

Popcorn Helps Control Weight

Popcorn is all starch but light in weight. What this means is it does not need to be converted by the body into carbs and fats. This is what fattens you up. On the plus side, popcorn is low on sugar content. This will not cause the blood glucose to spike on the inside of the body like other snacks tend to do. So, you can consume popcorn even if you have diabetes.

Because of its low calorie content, low energy density, high fiber content and increased satiety, eating popcorn may help you eat fewer calories and lose weight.

This is just a healthy snack provided you don’t add lots of toppings.

It’s best to keep salt, butter and additional toppings to a minimum to enjoy the healthful benefits of eating popcorn.

Conclusion

I think you can agree, popcorn is a healthy snack. It even provides some healthy bonuses to your health like vitamins, minerals and fiber. The main issue is the amount of toppings individuals put on their popcorn. This is where the healthy part of the popcorn breaks down.

We also shared information that popcorn is virtually good for everyone accept for those who are allergic to corn. So, enjoy eating your popcorn and limit those toppings. If you do, you reap all of the benefits mentioned in this article.

We shared the ingredients movie theaters use when making their popcorn. You know the secret ingredient of Flavacol. So, the next time you have family movie night, the members of the household just might say “hey dad” the popcorn tastes just we are at the movies.

Happy popcorn eating!

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