Does Popcorn Count as a Vegetable?
Popcorn is one of the most popular snacks in existence, but does it count as a vegetable? It turns out that this crunchy snack isn’t a vegetable at all – it’s actually a whole grain!
What Is Popcorn?
Popcorn is a type of maize that is dedicated to popping due to its hard and starchy outer shell. When heated, the moisture inside the kernel rapidly expands, causing it to eventually “pop” into the classic, fluffy, and crunchy snack. Each kernel pops into roughly 8 to 10 pieces, and different varieties of popcorn have different flavors, textures, and colors.
Is Popcorn a Vegetable?
Popcorn is not a vegetable, as it is a type of grain. It is technically a cereal grain, and is related to other grains such as wheat, oats, and barley.
Nutritional Profile of Popcorn
Popcorn is an excellent source of dietary fiber, making it a great choice as a snack. It is also high in antioxidants and is relatively low in calories.
Some of the nutrients found in popcorn are:
- Fiber: Popcorn is an excellent source of dietary fiber, with 3.5 grams of fiber per 3-cup (85 gram) serving.
- Protein: Popcorn also contains 3.5 grams of protein per 3-cup (85 gram) serving.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Popcorn also contains several important vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and zinc.
Conclusion
Popcorn is a whole grain that is an excellent source of dietary fiber and other important vitamins and minerals. It is not a vegetable, but it is still a healthy and delicious snack food. It is low in calories and can be a great addition to any diet.
