Nebraska consistently ranks in the top two states in the nation in popcorn production.
Annual production in Nebraska is more than 300 million pounds. Growing characteristics are very similar for popcorn and field corn production. Popcorn contains more protein than any other cereal grain. (Source: National Popcorn Institute)
Popcorn contains more iron than eggs, spinach, peanuts, or roast beef. (Source: National Popcorn Institute)
The oldest ears of popcorn ever found were discovered in the Bat Cave of west central New Mexico in 1948 and 1950. Ranging from smaller than a penny to about 2 inches, the oldest Bat Cave ears are about 4,000 years old. (Source: National Popcorn Institute)
Popcorn is low in calories -- only 31-55 calories in one cup of unbuttered, and when lightly buttered, one cup still only has 133 calories. (Source: National Popcorn Institute)
Americans today consume 17 billion quarts of popped popcorn each year. The average American eats about 58 quarts of Popcorn. (Source: National Popcorn Institute)
Nutritious, low-calorie, and crunchy, popcorn naturally appeals to all ages. Primarily a carbohydrate, it contains a surprising number of nutrients and is a ready source of energy.
All popcorn does not taste the same. Each variety is enhanced with its own subtle flavor.
Charles Cretors, founder of C. Cretors and Company in Chicago, introduced the world's first mobile popcorn machine at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. (Source: National Popcorn Institute)
The most popular stories of popcorn were those among Europeans coming to North America, met by Native Americans adorned with necklaces and headdresses made of popcorn. Native Americans brought a bag of popcorn to the first Thanksgiving dinner and later colonists enjoyed popcorn as a puffed breakfast cereal served with cream or milk.