Science Smarts: The science of snacks
By Patty Rooks on May 6, 2023.
I really wanted a snack the other day, and I realized I was out of microwave popcorn… then it occurred to me that I should be able to make my own. With a little trial and error, I discovered how to make a healthy and delicious snack – with the use of science of course. Let’s get started! *Remember to ask an adult before doing this experiment. Materials – Microwave – Measuring cup – Popcorn – Measuring spoons – Oil – Brown paper lunch bag – Salt (optional) Procedure 1. Measure out 60 mL (1/4 cup) of plain popcorn kernels and pour into the brown bag. 2. Add 5mL (one teaspoon) of oil and a dash of salt if you are using it. 3. Fold the paper bag over a couple of times and shake well. 4. Place the bag with the folds on the top in the microwave. 5. Set the timer for about three minutes BUT pay attention, depending on your microwave it may take less time. PAY attention as you could burn the popcorn. Listen and when you do not hear any more popping coming from the microwave, turn it off IMMEDIATELY. 6. Remove the bag from the microwave BE CAREFUL it is hot. Allow it to sit for a minute so it can cool down. Carefully unroll the folds at the top of the bag as there will be steam escaping and it could burn you. What is going on? It is quite easy to make your own microwave popcorn at home; it is as delicious and perhaps even a bit healthier for you. I know it is hard to believe, but there is science at work in this popular snack. Popcorn kernels are a special kind of corn that has a tough hull on the outside. It dries up, but a bit of moisture remains inside the kernel. Once it heats up in the microwave, steam builds up inside the kernel, creating pressure until it explodes through that tough hull. The steam helps by puffing up the protein and starch in the kernel! Patty Rooks, Senior Scientific Consultant PRAXIS, “Connecting Science To The Community”. Contact Praxis at praxis@praxismh.ca, http://www.praxismh.ca, Tweet or follow us @PraxisMedHat, or friend us on Facebook. We are located at: #12 826 11 Street S. E., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 1T7 Phone: 403.527.5365, email: praxis@praxismh.ca. 23-22
