Say No to Microwavable Popcorn

Who doesn’t love popcorn? Popcorn is acceptable to eat on GOLO with one condition – stay away from the microwave kind. You may be asking, “Why? That’s the easiest way to make it!” Maybe…but when you hear about the health consequences that may stem from it, you may change your mind.

Why microwave popcorn is bad for you

While the convenience of microwave popcorn makes it a desirable option, the negatives far outweigh its benefits.

Chemicals

Many microwave popcorn bags are lined with chemicals known as PFAS. They help to keep the bag from burning. Unfortunately, there is evidence that these toxic chemicals can leach into your popcorn while it’s popping.

PFAS are referred to as ‘forever chemicals’, because they break down very slowly, accumulating both in the environment and within human bodies.

Some popcorn manufacturers have stopped using certain PFAS, but according to a 2020 study, microwave popcorn almost always contains a certain amount. Also, there’s no guarantee the chemicals replacing PFAS are any safer.

Ingredients

Microwave popcorn usually lists unhealthy oils, like palm oil and vegetable oil, as an ingredient. These oils high in saturated fat.

Microwave popcorn may also contain additives, sodium, and artificial flavoring, all of which make is an unhealthy food choice.

What is the health alternative to microwave popcorn?

The healthy alternative to microwave popcorn is air-popped popcorn that you can make at home. 

How can I make air-popped popcorn at home?

Stove-top: It’s easy to pop your own popcorn on the stove! All you need is a large pot, a tight lid and popcorn kernels. Or, you could even try one of these Stove Top Popcorn Poppers

Microwave: If you like the convenience of microwave popcorn but don’t want to make it on the stove, try one of these microwaveable glass or silicone popcorn poppers. They are easy to use and make for quick clean up!

Popcorn maker: There are many countertop popcorn makers on the market that make healthy popcorn quickly and with little clean up.

Can popcorn be included in a balanced GOLO meal?

If you're interested in having a healthy movie night that incudes popcorn, you're in luck. You can create a complete, balanced GOLO meal by following this recipe:

• 3 oz Shrimp
• ¼ cup Hummus
• 2 cups Cherry tomatoes
• ¼ cup guacamole
• 2 cups popcorn (measured after popping)

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