FREQUENTLY ASKED POPCORN MACHINE QUESTIONS

What size popcorn machine do I need? The popcorn machine kettle size refers to the approximate number of one-ounce popped popcorn servings the kettle will produce in one popping cycle (which takes about 3-4 minutes).

For example, a 4 oz. popcorn machine will produce enough popcorn in one cycle to fill 4 one-ounce popcorn servings. A one-ounce serving is a bag approximately 3" wide by 2" deep by 8" tall. Four ounces of popped popcorn is roughly equivalent to a microwaveable bag of popped popcorn.

The best way to determine the size of machine you will need is to figure out how many one-ounce servings you will go through during your busiest hour. Divide the number of one-ounce servings per hour by 16 and you will have the size machine you will need to meet your busiest demand. For example: During her busiest hour, Ann needs 125 one-ounce bags of popcorn. 125 divided by 16 equals 7.81, therefore Ann should order an 8 oz. popcorn machine.

How long does it take to cook a batch of popcorn? All commercial poppers are designed to cook a kettle of kernels in approximately 3-1/2 minutes. The cycle time is based on having the kettle heated to cooking temperature before loading the kettle. We recommend your popcorn machine be plugged directly into a dedicated outlet. Extension cords may create a safety hazard and reduce its performance.

What type of oil should I use to cook popcorn? The type of oil that you use will affect the taste of the popcorn. The most common type that is used is coconut oil. It normally is regarded as the best tasting and has long been a staple at movie theaters. However, many health conscious people prefer canola oil due to its lower fat and cholesterol content. Other types that are often used are sunflower, peanut and soy.

What is an old maid drawer? An old maid drawer is built into the lower portion of the popcorn machine and is designed to collect the unpopped kernels (commonly called "old maids"). The small holes in the bottom tray are just the right size to allow the old maids to fall through while keeping the fully popped corn in the serving cabinet.

What is a heated corn deck? A heated corn deck is a heating element that is located in the bottom portion of the popcorn machine and keeps popcorn warm, crispy and fresh.

What’s the best way to keep my popcorn machine clean? Almost all commercial poppers utilize tempered glass panels, stainless steel cleanout trays, aluminum corner posts and anodized kettles. These surfaces can be cleaned using a vinegar and water solution. The use of ammonia based cleaners is not recommended. You will want to note that you should never submerge a kettle in any type of liquid because it has electrical components inside of it that can short out. Kettles are designed to be wiped out with a clean cloth after each use. Should you have a kettle that gets burned-on oil stains you can order a specialized kettle cleaner which will allow you to clean it to near new condition.

What is “expansion ratio” on popcorn and what is the optimum level? Expansion ratio refers to the increase in volume that occurs as popcorn pops. It is determined by measuring the volume of popcorn prior to and after popping. An expansion ratio between 40 and 44 is usually considered ideal. If the expansion is less than 40, the popped corn can be a little chewy and if the expansion ratio is over 44 the popcorn becomes very brittle and tends to break apart into small pieces.

What makes popcorn pop? A popcorn kernel actually has approximately 12% moisture inside of it. As you heat up the kernel, the moisture turns into steam and expands. Once the kernel reaches 475 degrees Fahrenheit the expanding steam forces the hull to explode (or pop).