Rainbow Popcorn Kernels

Corn: The Backstory

Corn’s journey begins in 7000 BCE in southern Mexico, where the earliest forms were likely popcorn and possibly a fermented drink. Early popcorn featured a colorful mix of blue, red, pink, black, and yellow kernels on the same cob. Corn syrup, derived from this versatile crop, also emerged early on. While Native Americans spread corn across North America through intricate trade networks, it wasn’t until the late 1800s that Americans fully embraced corn in its various forms.

Popcorn: The Backstory

Popcorn was one of the first edible forms of corn and became a beloved American snack alongside peanuts, both known for their extra CRUNCH! Though popcorn wasn’t widely popular until the late 1800s, it quickly gained traction, sold by vendors on trains, at public events, and eventually in movie theaters. It became the first concession food and was even used as a cereal (yes, with milk and sugar!), as a sandwich filling, and as a garnish for soups and salads. Don’t hesitate to explore its delicious versatility!