In This Article
Why do we eat popcorn at the movies?
Popcorn has a long history dating back to around 3600 BC in Mexico, where it was reportedly discovered by a wealthy farmer who had left his surplus corn to dry in the open air. Upon hearing the kernels popping, he tasted the product and decided to turn it into a business venture.
Popcorn consumption later increased, thanks in part to American confectioner Charles Cretors, who invented the first mobile popcorn steamer in Chicago in 1890. However, the association between popcorn and movie theaters is a more recent development. For a long time, cinemas opposed popcorn consumption due to the noise it created, which could distract viewers during movie screenings. It was only during the Great Depression in the 1930s that popcorn was introduced to theaters as a means to boost profits. The Dallas movie chain was the first to install popcorn machines in 80 of its theaters, leading to a significant increase in attendance within two years. Since then, popcorn has become an integral part of the moviegoing experience.
Popcorn's entrance into the world of perfumery
The use of popcorn in perfumery is an even more recent phenomenon, with the first gourmand perfumes not appearing until the 1990s. Thierry Mugler was the pioneer in incorporating popcorn into fragrances, introducing its scent in the iconic Angel perfume. Evoking childhood memories and reminiscent of fun fairs, the sweet, gourmand aroma of popcorn creates a nostalgic and comforting ambiance.
Fun Facts About Popcorn
- Popcorn is made from a special type of corn called "Zea mays everta," which has a hard outer shell and a starchy interior that expands and pops when heated.
- In 1945, microwave popcorn was accidentally invented by Percy Spencer when a corn kernel popped while he was experimenting with a magnetron for radar research.
- The world's largest popcorn ball, weighing in at over 6,510 pounds, was created in 2013 in the United States.
- National Popcorn Day is celebrated annually on January 19 in the United States.
