National Popcorn Day 
Not all corn can be popcorn. There are six types of corn commonly grown that puffs up when it is heated in oil or dry heat. As with all cereal grains, each kernel of popcorn contains a certai
n amount of moisture in its starchy endosperm. Unlike most other grains, the outer hull of the popcorn kernel is thick enabling pressure to build up inside. The ideal popcorn kernel contains approximately 14% moisture. As the kernel is heated past the boiling point, water in the kernel begins to turn to steam, generating an internal pressure of about 135 psi. The pressure starts to build until the hull suddenly ruptures, causing a small explosion. The starch in the endosperm (the core) bursts to about 40 times its original size, turning the kernel inside out. The average popping temperature for popcorn is around 347°F. 
Kernels which do not pop, known as “old maids,” are believed to not have enough moisture to create enough steam for an explosion. Or, they might have a leaky hull. Popcorn kernels should be kept in a tightly sealed container to keep them from drying out.
n amount of moisture in its starchy endosperm. Unlike most other grains, the outer hull of the popcorn kernel is thick enabling pressure to build up inside. The ideal popcorn kernel contains approximately 14% moisture. As the kernel is heated past the boiling point, water in the kernel begins to turn to steam, generating an internal pressure of about 135 psi. The pressure starts to build until the hull suddenly ruptures, causing a small explosion. The starch in the endosperm (the core) bursts to about 40 times its original size, turning the kernel inside out. The average popping temperature for popcorn is around 347°F. 
Kernels which do not pop, known as “old maids,” are believed to not have enough moisture to create enough steam for an explosion. Or, they might have a leaky hull. Popcorn kernels should be kept in a tightly sealed container to keep them from drying out. 
Take the time today to pop some popcorn
and sit down with a good movie.
~ Chef Wilkinson ~
