Background and Identification
A popcorn maker (also called a popcorn popper) is a machine used to pop popcorn. There are both commercial and household popcorn machines on the market. Commercial popcorn machines were first invented by Charles Cretors in the late 1800s. Today, commercial popcorn machines are commonly used in carnivals and movie theaters.
Hot air popcorn poppers appeared for home use in the late 1970s. Popcorn poppers are still used in homes today, although most popcorn-consumers make their popcorn using a microwavable popcorn bag. Popcorn can also be made by heating popcorn kernels on a stovetop. There are also popcorn makers that are designed for use in the microwave, providing a step up from a microwavable popcorn bag.
Household popcorn machines come at a range of price points. For instance, the Cuisinart Pop and Serve sells for $12.99. On the other hand, the Nostalgia Concession Vintage Professional Popcorn Cart sells for $179.99.
Popcorn machines for home use are designed to sit flat on a kitchen countertop or table. They have a power cord, base, and popcorn chute that pushes popcorn into an external bowl after it has been popped. Popcorn makers come in a variety of colors and are manufactured by numerous companies, including Cuisinart, Presto, West Bend, Great Northern Popcorn Company, and more.