Popcorn History

The history of popcorn

Have you ever stopped to think about when and how popcorn was invented? You might be inclined to think that it is a fairly recent phenomenon, but the reality is that people have been enjoying it for thousands of years.

Popcorn makes its debut

It's hard to believe that popcorn was a staple in the diet of cave people, but recent research indicates that it most likely was. In fact, archeologists have found corn pollen that was nearly 80,000 years old, which seems to confirm that this treat was enjoyed long before the movies. Although it was consumed all over the world, including China and India, it is believed that the first popcorn was popped in Mexico.

Preserving history

Thanks to well-preserved popcorn, historians were able to determine its role in the lives of many different civilizations. Besides the 80,000-year-old corn pollen, historians also have found already popped popcorn in central New Mexico that is nearly 6,000 years old.

Unbelievably, popcorn can be preserved so well that it still looks the same as the day it was popped. In one case, researchers found popcorn that was 1,000 years old that looked remarkably fresh.

More than just food

Besides being a source of food, it also was used as a decoration in older civilizations, adorning headdresses and necklaces. Even today, many people still incorporate popcorn into holiday decorations.

Expanding the menu

Different civilizations quickly began to incorporate popcorn into other meals, which led to recipes like popcorn soup and popcorn beer. Colonists even used it as a breakfast cereal that was served with cream or milk.

Over the years, many more recipes were developed that featured it. Some of these, which include popcorn balls, candied popcorn, and even Cracker Jacks, are still popular today.

Gaining popularity

It wasn't until the late 19th century that it became the popular American treat that is today. Street vendors made it available by selling it in parks and near theaters in popped and unpopped forms.

Ironically, theaters began selling popcorn because they believed the street vendors were a distraction to their customers, and ultimately affected their business. For whatever the reason, it was a hit and moviegoers quickly realized that it was an ideal snack for the movies.

Still popular today

While popcorn is still a popular treat at the movies, 70% of popcorn consumed in America is enjoyed at home. It is believed that Americans today eat approximately 17 billion quarts in a year, which translates into 54 quarts per person.

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