Popcorn Origins Found In Peru

By Michael Lopez

The next time you pull one of those delicious popcorn bags out of the microwave, you may want to give a little shout out to Peru. According to some recent discoveries, the South American country may be the originator of what we now know as popcorn.

National Geographic is now claiming that Peruvian civilizations created the crunchy kernels over 6,700 years ago. Archeologists exploring the Andean region of the country recently discovered ancient corn remnants wrapped in foil-esque material and resting near coals.

They believe the Peruvians used the coals to "pop" kernels, simulating the same fluffy edibles we now enjoy today. Was there liquid butter, salt packets, and Diet Coke cups? Probably not, but the discovery is groundbreaking nonetheless.

It's all pretty amazing stuff, though it's a shame the ancient Peruvians weren't able to copyright their invention. Because as we all know, there are going to be A TON of kernels popping come Super Bowl time.

What's your favorite flavor of popcorn? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Cultura, Food, National Geographic, peru, Popcorn