When it comes to microwavable popcorn, there are many reasons why you should stay away. The plastic-sealed bags may promise to transport you into delicious bliss within some minutes but there is a hefty price to pay.
According to Amy Lee, head of nutrition for Nucific, if you consume microwave popcorn, “you’re exposing yourself to a lot…It’s scary.”
Here are some reasons why you should avoid them:
The whole bag is lined with chemicals. Most microwave popcorn are doused with PFAs, a class of synthetic chemicals famous for their use in food packaging. To prevent artificial buttering flavor from leaking out, popcorn manufacturers coat the insides of their popcorn bags with PFAs. However those chemicals are known to leach into the popcorn and eventually your body upon consumption. PFAs take some time to break down, so they can easily accumulate in your blood overtime.
There is such a thing as popcorn lung. Most don’t know but you can get something called “popcorn lung.” This is because the butter flavor and color that make popcorn almost irresistible are both completely fake. They are just complex chemical concoctions that often contain diacetyl, and according to Dr. Lee, the compound has been listed as a poison. It can cause bronchiolitis obliterans, a condition where the smallest pathways in the lungs get inflamed, leading to frequent coughing and shortness of breath.
It contains tons of saturated fat. Aside form the harmful chemicals microwave popcorn contain, they also rank high in saturated fat content like palm oil. There are even popular brands that contain up to 4 grams of saturated fat in a single serving, a whopping 20 percent of the daily recommended intake.
The sodium levels are very high. Microwave popcorn contains high amounts of sodium because manufacturers need to make their patrons feel bliss. This means both the salt and fat have to be present. The levels of sodium usually vary by brand, but many contain up to 250-300 mg of sodium per serving, which is up to 15 percent of your daily value.
Instead of microwave popcorn, try making popcorn from scratch! It’s not as complicated as it sounds! All that is required is a pan with a lid, some vegetable oil, and some unpopped popcorn kernels. You’ll find it healthier and more satisfying.
