What Causes the Fluffy White Stuff in Popcorn?

Discover what the white substance in popcorn is and how it forms during popping.

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The white stuff in popcorn is the starch and water inside the kernel. When heated, the water turns into steam, causing the starch to gelatinize. The pressure from the steam causes the kernel to burst open, resulting in the fluffy white part that we eat.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Is popcorn healthy to eat? Yes, popcorn can be a healthy snack when prepared without excessive oil or butter and can be a good source of fiber.
  2. Why does popcorn pop? Popcorn pops due to the moisture inside the kernels, which turns to steam and causes an explosive expansion of the starch.
  3. What type of popcorn is best for popping? The most common type for popping is 'mushroom' and 'butterfly' popcorn; both have unique textures and uses.