Types of Popcorn and Popcorn Machines (2024)

Popcorn Terminology

When buying popcorn for a popcorn machine, you will sometimes see these terms used. Learn what they mean so you can make sure you're buying the best popcorn for your business!

• Expansion Rate: The expansion rate measures the number of popped popcorn servings produced from a specific amount of unpopped kernels. For example, 1 cup of popcorn kernels with an expansion rate of 38 will yield 38 cups of popped popcorn. An expansion rate between 35-40 is considered to be good quality - the higher the expansion rate is, the greater the volume of popped corn.
• Moisture Content: To ensure maximum popping efficiency, it is best to strive for kernels with a moisture content somewhere between 13% to 14.5%. While popcorn with a lower moisture content may not pop to its fullest potential and yield some unpopped kernels, popcorn with a higher moisture content may yield a chewy product and limit its expansion rate.
• Kernel Size: Kernel size is measured in K/10 g (kernels per 10 grams). To find the kernel size of popcorn, 10 grams of popcorn are measured and the number of kernels is counted. The greater the number of kernels, the smaller the kernel size. Kernel size simply refers to the size - it does not directly influence how the popcorn expands.

When choosing a cooking oil for your popcorn, it is important to consider the smoke point of the oil. The smoke point refers to the temperature at which an oil breaks down and ceases to be useful. Some oils are not able to handle the heat from your kettle, which may end up burning and even changing the nutritional content of your popcorn. Another point to consider is the taste. Some oils do not affect popcorn's natural taste, while others may lend a richer flavor.

Coconut oil and canola oil are among the most popular popcorn oils due to their high smoke points, health properties, and neutral flavor.

1. Operating switches: quality units will include three switches for heat, which controls the turner, a merchandising light, and a motor/stirrer switch to initiate the popping.
2. Kettle: heats the oil and kernels to make popcorn. Look for removable, stainless steel kettles for easy cleaning.
3. Roller bar: turns the kettle to completely empty the contents of the pot and helps increase employee safety.
4. Warming deck: keeps the popcorn warm and fresh.
5. Door: provides easy access to the kettle and inside cabinet for convenient cleaning.
6. Drop door: makes it easy to scoop popcorn without opening the unit's entire door.
7. Kernel tray: allows for the removal of unpopped kernels, which have fallen through a perforated warming deck.
8. Feet: non-slip rubber feet provide additional stability for countertop models.

Two factors to consider when purchasing the best popcorn machine for your needs are kettle material and kettle volume.

1. Kettle Material

2. Kettle Volume

Estimate how much popcorn you will be making each day to determine the kettle size you need.

• Low-volume commercial poppers have kettles with capacities between 4 to 8 ounces. These are ideal for catering parties, offices, and fundraising events.
• Medium-volume commercial poppers have kettles with capacities between 12 to 14 ounces. These are ideal for some movie theaters, convenience and retail stores, and fundraising events.
• High-volume commercial poppers have kettles with capacities between 16 to 20 ounces. These are ideal for movie theaters, convention centers, arenas, and amusem*nt parks.

To entice customers and further increase impulse sales at special events and parties, consider using vintage popcorn carts and display stands to add nostalgic charm to your snack service! They are also great for locations with limited counter space.

Popcorn machines are easy to use. They require only a few simple switches to operate and only two ingredients, popcorn kernels and oil, to make popcorn.

1. Turn the heat and light switch to ON.
2. Add oil and let heat for 3-4 minutes. How much oil for the popcorn machine can be determined by using a ratio of 1 part oil per 3 parts popcorn kernel.
3. Once the oil is heated, turn on the motor switch and add the popcorn kernels.
4. Once the popping is complete, turn off the motor and heat switches. Carefully dump popcorn from the kettle by turning the roller bar. It is recommended to use an oven mitt or protective glove when dumping the popcorn as the kettle's surface will be very hot.
5. At this point, only the light should be switched to ON. This will keep your popcorn warm and dry until it is served.
6. If more butter or seasoning is desired, complete this step outside of the main unit in a separate bowl or container.

Important Safety Precautions:

• When finished, be sure to unplug the machine from its power supply.
• Always use oil when popping kernels; never operate with a dry kettle pot.
• Once you are finished popping and the unit has cooled, clean your popcorn machine to prevent grease build-up and protect the longevity of your machine.