Popcorn is one of those simple joys that connects agriculture with snacking. In honor of National Popcorn Day on January 19, it's the perfect time to celebrate one of Illinois' tastiest agricultural products.
Illinois: Home of the Nation's Top Popcorn County
Mason County, Illinois, has long been recognized as a top popcorn grower. According to the USDA Census of Agriculture, Mason County reported 18,552 acres of popcorn in 2012 and continues to be cited as the top popcorn-producing county in the United States. The Weaver Popcorn plant in Forest City supplies popcorn to more than 90 countries worldwide.
The Science Behind the Pop
Popcorn pops due to a combination of structure, moisture, and heat. Popcorn kernels contain about 14% water. As the kernel heats, this water turns to steam and builds pressure.
This flint-type corn, with an especially tough outer hull, holds steam until the kernel reaches about 180°C (356°F). The distinct "pop" sound is the rapid release of the pressurized steam from inside the kernel.
When the hull bursts, the molten starch cools instantly into the familiar, fluffy popcorn shape. That delicious popcorn aroma is produced by compounds that form during heating. Check out this infographic from Compound Interest to learn more about the chemistry working in popcorn.
Growing Your Own Popcorn
Popcorn is surprisingly easy to grow at home. It grows much like sweet corn, but with a longer season and a bit more patience.
Popcorn needs full sun and ample space away from other varieties of corn, such as sweet corn or dent corn. Cross-pollination with different types of corn can alter the hull's structure, preventing it from retaining steam to pop the kernel.
Popcorn can take a bit longer to germinate and likes a sandier soil. That sandy soil is one of the reasons Mason County is a major popcorn producer. Consistent water is also necessary for optimal production.
Harvest your popcorn when the husks dry down from green to a brown/beige color. Popcorn kernels should be firm and glossy when harvested.
After harvesting, allow time for the kernels to dry to around 14% moisture for the best popping. Shelling the kernel off the cob helps make storage more manageable. Glass airtight containers are an excellent choice for storing the popcorn kernels.
If the kernels get too dry, the popping consistency decreases. Re-hydrating the kernels can help restore the popcorn popping ability. Do this by adding a tablespoon of water to a quart jar and shaking daily for about a week.
Celebrate National Popcorn Day
Whether you grow it, teach about it, or enjoy learning about its science, popcorn is a fantastic way to celebrate Illinois agriculture. This National Popcorn Day, raise a bowl to the farmers, processors, and home gardeners who keep this crop popping.
Updated from a 2017 ILRiverHort article by Rhonda Ferree