Have you noticed that the processed food we eat is not looked at in a favorable light. Why? Because the word processed means that food is enhanced to increase the flavor. These processed foods have certain chemicals, fats, sodium, and sugar so that you want to eat more. Do not worry – I am not going to make you feel guilty over your Pop Tarts or Pizza Rolls, but I am going to point you in a better direction. Popcorn has been used as a staple and as a snack for many years. It came from the wild grass called teosinte, which was grown in southwest Mexico. It is estimated that it was grown by the natives for at least the past 9,000 years. Amazingly, in Peru, at an archeologist’s dig, some puffed kernels were found on corn cobs. The corn cob was 6,700 years old! It is incredible how they discovered the popped corn. It became a staple, and as with all civilizations, trade routes were established to trade with other tribes. In the first half of the 1600s, the French explorers and trappers discovered from the Iroquois how to heat the kernels. The Iroquois Nation was settled along the Great Lakes and parts of New England. Trade routes were vast – they covered North and South America – and the natives used corn as a staple (some tribes even made jewelry for ceremonies out of it). Even the dried grass leaves of the plant were used to weave purses and sandals. Nothing was wasted, for everything was handmade, and the material used was from nature. Corn is a good staple that is high in fiber and antioxidants. It is a whole grain with vitamins and minerals. That is the reason it was traded, as it was a good food source. If you were on the move, it was easy to put in a food sack, and with no preparation, they could just put it in the fire for a quick snack or meal. Over the years, civilization has improved on corn, and it is no longer a grass but a big stalk. When we think of popcorn, we remember how good it smelled at the movies. Today, you can buy all kinds of flavors, but these flavors make it less healthy. If you just stick to the kernel, lightly salted, and a good movie, you will have an enjoyable and healthy time by yourself or with family and friends. Aren’t you glad the natives found the grass and experimented with it as a food source! So, the next time you make a big bowl of popcorn, raise your bowl, and thank the early man for this wonderful discovery. Bon appétit!!
