12 Best Popcorn Kernels of 2023

Photo: Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn

How to find the best popcorn kernels? How to distinguish between best and ordinary kernels? Well, our review is centered to these questions because to enjoy the popcorn to the fullest, you will need nutrition-rich and quality kernels. 

Popcorn is a common snack that people like to enjoy. The corns have rich content of fibre. Plus, the antioxidants are found in the hull which are highly effective in curing and preventing cancer.

Other than these, the popcorns are also anxiety relieving and help in controlling cholesterol. They also support healthy bone function.

This was all about the benefits of popcorn. Now, let’s get down to some leading recommendations in high-quality kernels. 

12 Best Popcorn Kernels ​– Review

IMAGE	​PRODUCT	​FEATURES
	1. Orville Redenbacher’s Popcorn kernels (Best Overall)	Great-quality and quantity at decent price High capacity Non-GMO Gluten-free
	2. Snappy White Popcorn (Reasonably-Priced)	Very reasonably priced Low fats High fibre content Available in plastic jar
	3. Bob’s Red Mill White Popcorns (100% Whole-Grain)	Made of 100% whole grain Butterfly shape Gluten-free High fibre content
	4. Great Northern 4110 (Zero Trans Fats)	Comes with 0 trans fats Buttery taste Available in small individual packs Cinema-quality popcorns
	5. Quinn 112000 (Organic Kernels)	Organic kernels Non-GMO Microwave-friendly No preservatives
	6. Amish Country Popcorn (Low-Calorie)	Low in calories Very soft and tender Dairy-free 100% wheat grain
	7. Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn (Peanut-Free)	Peanut-free Suitable for allergic people Crispy and tasty Pre-measured
	8. Paragon 1022 (Large Capacity)	Available in large capacity Very buttery Cost-effective Compatible with all popping devices
	9. Wabash Valley Farms Popcorn Kernels (With Antioxidants)	High antioxidant content No added chemicals Great in taste Large capacity
	10. Great Northern 4203 (OCIA Certified)	OCIA certified popcorn kernels Non-GMO Gluten-free 100% pure
	11. Anthony’s Organic Yellow Popcorn (Premium Quality)	USDA certified premium quality Natural product Non-GMO Gluten-free
	12. Hoosier Hill Farm HHF21 (Fluffy & Crunchy)	Very fluffy and crunchy Large capacity Gluten-free Rich in antioxidants

1. Orville Redenbacher’s Popcorn kernels – Best Overall Popcorn Kernels

Photo: Orville Redenbacher’s

This is undoubtedly the best overall popcorn kernels. This product is rich in nutrients and is available on a decent price, considering the high quantity you get.

Now, two of the best things about the kernels is that these are available in huge quantity and the plastic jar packing is simply incredible. It has a handle like shape on the side that make the entire packing quite attractive.

The product is available in two different quantities. It is a simple open and pour pack. However, you should be careful not to leave it open for long because contact with air will reduce the quality of kernels.

From this product, you can expect crispy outside and tender inside popcorns. You can make these on an air popper, electric popper, or even the stove top. However, we don’t recommend these for microwave.

It is 100% natural, non-GMO, and gluten-free product, made of whole grain. The antioxidants and fibre are available in huge amount. You should try the premium popcorn range with Orville.

Pros:

• Best value of money
• Available in huge quantity
• Storage can be easy
• Comes in a handy plastic jar that can be reused

Cons:

• Should not come in contact with air

2. Snappy White Popcorn – Reasonably-Priced Popcorn Kernels

Photo: Snappy Popcorn

For someone who wants to enjoy the greatest popcorn at an affordable price, this is a great option. The 4 pounds jar is available on a very reasonable price. These are beautifully shaped in mushrooms and have fluffy appearance.

Here also, you will hardly find any un-popped kernels left in the air popper or pan, wherever you want to make them. For microwave popping, you will have to use a plastic bag.

These have low fats and high fibre content. Also, the hulls are less, making it a great snack for old people as they don’t enjoy chewing extremely hard or hull part of the popcorn.

The product is available in a pack of two with decent quantities. Also, the storage is quite convenient. These are GMO free and quite tender.

The overall quality is great but for microwave popping, you will have to buy separate plastic bags which is an additional expense. 

Pros:

• Very reasonably priced
• Great for rapid popping
• Leave less un-popped kernels
• Stays fresh for a long time

Cons:

• Additional expense of plastic bags for microwave popping

3. Bob’s Red Mill White Popcorn – 100% Whole-Grain Popcorn Kernels

Photo: Bob’s Red Mill

The popcorn kernels from Bob’s Mill come in a unique flavour. These are 100% vegetarian and made from 100% whole grain with no added oil or sugar. Thus, they are the best source of fibre. Also, it does not have any saturated fats. 

The makers have made these kernels after carefully selecting the quality crops of the corns. The shape of these corns is butterfly with a white variety of hull.

Since these are gluten-free, the health enthusiasts will also appreciate. This product is available in multiple quantities. 

Take out the portion that you would like to make and reseal them as exposure to air will hamper the quality of the kernels.

Also, the packaging is not done very well. You will find the package to get easily damaged. Thus, it is recommended to take out the kernels from the package and put them in some airtight container.

Pros:

• Made of 100% whole grain
• Rich in healthy fibre
• Available in multiple quantities
• Does not have any saturated trans fat

Cons:

• Should not be exposed to the air
• The packaging is week

4. Great Northern 4110 – Popcorn Kernels with Zero Trans Fats

Photo: Great Northern Popcorn Company

About this particular product, it has zero trans fat and no cholesterol. The ingredients used in the pack are coconut oil, kernels, beta-carotene natural and artificial flavours.

After preparation, they turn out to be extremely fluffy and delicious. That is why it is most popular among the kids.

The product is available in three sizes of 2.5 oz, 4 oz, and 8 oz. you can purchase as per the need of your house. 

Plus, these are gluten-free. You can expect them to stay fresh for the longest time. Also, the storage of this product is pretty easy.

They don’t create any waste or mess as you prepare the popcorns. Also, unlike other kernels, these don’t have any allergens available in the pack.

This product is definitely one of the finest purchases. You can prepare them on any source such as air popper, or stove top. However, if they stay in the popper for too long, they may become dry and hard.  

Pros:

• Comes with zero trans fats
• No waste kernels after preparation
• Can be made in air popper or stove top
• Include buttery oil

Cons:

• Becomes hard and dry if remain inside the popper for too long

5. Quinn 112000 – Organic Popcorn Kernels

Photo: Quinn

The organic kernels are available with additional seasoning of sea salt. You can also dress it with butter and enjoy the popcorns. You just have to take out a plastic bag and put it inside the microwave and in less than 90 seconds, you can take it out.

The bag is also made of compostable and recyclable paper without any chemical coatings or plastic usage.

Furthermore, the product is made of gluten-free, non-GMO, and organic ingredients, thus becoming the best organic popcorn kernels in our list.

There are no artificial ingredients or preservatives added in the pack. It also doesn’t have any trans fats or hydrogenated oils. If you are fond of eating artificial flavored popcorn then this product is not for you.

Health enthusiast will surely appreciate it for the great ingredients and quality of the product. But one thing that has been noticed that once you take it out from the microwave, the pack is extremely hot and difficult to hold.

Pros:

• Completely organic
• No artificial flavours
• Great nutritional advantages
• Amazing overall quality

Cons:

• The paper bag becomes extremely hot after microwaving

6. Amish Country Popcorn – Low-Calorie Popcorn Kernels

Photo: Amish Country Popcorn

Unlike any other product in our list, this one is low in calories. The pack has kernels that make popcorn in different colors such as red, blue and purple. The net weight of each bag is 3 oz.

These are gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegetarian product made of 100% wheat grain. Furthermore, it is dairy-free and does not have lactose in the popcorn.

One of the other key attractions is that it comes with a recipe book that help you in making popcorn with different seasonings.  

Another important thing about this product is that the hull becomes really soft and tender. So, you will not experience it getting inside the teeth and bothering you.

While other things about this product are great, it is weak at packaging. The packet is not airtight, so this will cause a problem. Also, it is not premeasured so you will have to measure it yourself before every popping session.

Pros:

• Low-calorie popcorn kernels
• Great overall quality
• Gluten-free
• Comes with a recipe book

Cons:

• Packaging is quite week
• It is not premeasured

7. Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn – Peanut-Free Kernels

Photo: Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn

Unlike many other products that are considered not suitable for allergic people, this one is a great product to pick. You can serve these popcorn to anyone because these are also peanut-free, soy-free, Kosher and Vegan.

If you are strictly following organic diet and need the same from the popcorn then Franklin’s popcorn kernels have solved your problem.

The pack comes with oil and seasonings to make it pretty convenient for you to make popcorn. These can be prepared in stove top as well as electric popper.

There are no animal fats, gluten, or trans fats. Plus, it is also completely gluten-free. One pack will serve one time only and the quantity is also for a small family of two.

Pros:

• Soy and Peanut-free
• Safe for allergic people
• Comes with oil and seasonings

Cons:

• Not recommended for microwave popping
• Packing is too small in quantity

8. Paragon 1022 – Popcorn Kernels in Large Capacity

Photo: Paragon – Manufactured Fun

Well, as its name suggest, the pack available with bulk kernels inside. You get 12.5 pounds at a very suitable price. It can suit the need of large families. It is the top-rated popcorn kernels in our list.

There is no certain restriction of any particular cooking equipment as you can make it in a microwave or stove top or even the air popper.

The hull is tender and soft and there is no mess left in the appliance after you have made the popcorn. These are also gluten-free and made with wheat grain.

Since there is no added oil, that you will have to do by yourself. Also, the large packing has some pitfalls as well such as you have to take out all the kernels and store them in some airtight container. The packing is not in an airtight bag.

Pros:

• Price is quite suitable as per the size
• Easy to make popcorn kernels
• Compatible with all the popping equipment

Cons:

• Not available in airtight packing
• Do not contain any oil of their own

9. Wabash Valley Fresh Popcorn – Popcorn Kernels with Antioxidants

Photo: Wabash Valley Farms

It has rich content of fibre and antioxidants that ensure good health of the user. The fluffy and puffy popcorn also look great when served to the guests.

With a pack like this, you can enjoy 72 batches of luscious popcorn for your family. It has tender pieces in amazing flavor that you can easily pop in the house using any kind of equipment. There are no added chemicals to boost the taste of the product.

While the packing is airtight, it still becomes difficult to manage such massive bags. You should have a plastic container and transfer the kernels in that to keep them away from air exposure and moisture.

Pros:

• Antioxidants to prevent various diseases
• Available at decent price
• One pack can make 72 batches of popcorns
• Rich content of fibre

Cons:

• Too large packing to handle properly

10. Great Northern 4203 – OCIA Certified Popcorn Kernels

Photo: Great Northern

These days, most people take interest in consuming food that is exceptionally healthy and safe for them. This product is OCIA-certified, and it is a safe product.

These are non-GMO and suitable for those who look for a product with organic value. The pack is available in two prime quantities of 5 oz and 28 oz. However, storage of a bigger pack will be highly troublesome.

The pack is moisture free and protect the kernels from losing their natural qualities. The hull is tender and the popcorn are soft that can be easily consumed by toddlers and old age people without teeth.

Pros:

• OCIA certified
• Great in taste
• High organic value
• Suitable for kids and old people as well

Cons:

• The large packing is difficult to handle and store

11. Anthony’s Organic Yellow Popcorn – Premium Quality Popcorn Kernels

Photo: Anthony’s Goods

If you have been seeking for premium-quality popcorn then this one is a suitable choice. It is USDA certified and made with 100% plant-based ingredients for safe consuming.

It is a non-GMO and gluten-free product for the people that are health conscious. All the ingredients and relevant information is mentioned on the package for the buyers to read.

You can easily make these on an electric popper, air popper, or a stove top. However, we don’t recommend it for microwave popping because it does not come in a microwave safe paper bag.

It has high fiber, low calories, and high in polyphenols as well. You can add any kind of seasonings in them and make a new flavor. The product will expire too soon so be careful with that.

Pros:

• Premium quality product
• Non-GMO and gluten-free
• Can be prepared in air popper and stovetop
• Extremely delicious

Cons:

• Will expire too soon

12. Hoosier Hill Farm HHF21 – Fluffy and Crunchy Popcorn Kernels

Photo: Hoosier Hill Farm

There are not many kernels that pops up into extremely fluffy and crunchy popcorn. These kernels will give you mushroom-like amazing popcorn. 

Other thing that will surely interest you in this product is the plastic jar packing that can be used for various other purposes.

As far as other qualities are concerned, it is non-GMO and gluten-free product with a mouth-watering taste. 

Available in large packing, the product is rich in antioxidants and fiber to ensure good health. These are also priced suitably and has the unique flavors and aroma.

You will certainly like this product if you can excuse the hardness that comes eventually if the popcorn are kept for a long time in the air popper. Best is to make them immediately before eating.

Pros:

• Fluffy and fulfilling
• Non-GMO and gluten-free
• High quality product

Cons:

• May get hard if kept in air popper for too long

​How to Buy the Best Popcorn Kernel

So, in this section of popcorn kernels review, we will see some of the tips that helps you in buying the right popcorn pack.

As of above, you have been that there are various brands that are selling these products online. But how to be sure that which product is suitable to your needs and will taste the best?

Well, let’s see:

1. Amount per Pack

Whether it is the oiled popcorn or without the oil, these products are available in various individual packs that you can use at one time.

Therefore, while finding the best tasting popcorn kernels, make sure that it is available in suitable quantity in each pack.

The quantity should neither be too small nor too large. You don’t want the popcorn to finish even before your favorite movie has hardly begun.

The quantity should also depend on the largeness of the family. If you have a big family then it’s better to pick a huge quantity packing otherwise, you should be good with the small sizes.

Also, to make sure that you have sufficient stock, notes the amount of popcorn being used in the house every week. This way, you will know exactly when you require restocking.

2. Variety of Kernels

If we talk about the variety, it’s available in massive forms. Most popularly, there are yellow or white popcorn available in the market. However, with some added flavors, you can now find these products available in various other colors as well such as blue, red, and purple.

These all come under different varieties of popcorn that are dissimilar in colors and taste. All these have unique flavors, different sizes, textures, and so on.

3. Only Kernels or Kernels with Oil and Seasoning

Well, this is an extended text to the former tip about different varieties. The popcorn can also be classified in two other forms such as they can come with seasoning and oiling, or you can only buy dry kernels and add oil and seasoning according to your taste.

If you always have trouble in adding excessive or less oil with the kernels then you should buy pre-measured kernels that comes with the right amount of seasoning and salt. However, for those who wish to enjoy full freedom of making the popcorn should prefer only kernels so that they can add flavors of their choice.

Both types of popcorn can be prepared on stove top, or microwave, or the electric popper. You only have to add the oil in appropriate quantity and once they are popped, just top it with the seasonings of your choice.

4. The Packaging

It is equally important to check the packaging of the popcorn as well. Since you are not to use all of these at one time, the packaging should be solid that they can be stored easily.

There are also some bags with airtight zips. These bags can easily be reused for storing other things when kernels in the bag are finished.

Other than that, the packaging should have all the information about nutritional value of the product. And it should also include the instructions of making the popcorn to guide the customers.

How to Pop Popcorns

Photo: Anthony’s Goods

There are three prime ways in which you can make popcorns at home.

1. Stovetop

For this method, you will require a cooking pot or a frying pan with a lid. Follow the steps below to make popcorns:

• Add some oil in the pan. Use the oil that is given with the popcorn if you haven’t purchased the kernels only.
• Keep the pan on medium to high heat and as soon as the oil starts to heat, add the kernels.
• Now cover it with a lid and let the popcorn pop.
• As soon as the sound of popping stops, uncover the pan and take the popcorn out in the serving bowl.
• At last, add the butter and toppings of your choice and enjoy!

2. Microwave

This is the easiest method. But the microwave popcorn usually come in a paper bag that contains the kernels. You just have to place the paper bag inside the microwave and set it for 90 seconds. This much time is sufficient to make the popcorn.

3. Air Popper

Well, hot air popper is a machine, especially designed to make popcorn at home. But for this, you also need the best popcorn kernels for air popper.

Basically, the machine blows hot air through the container where you have kept the kernels for popping. Earlier, the machine was available in huge size and large quantity which was further used in cinema halls and other commercial places.

However, after understanding the increased need of the product, smaller and domestic versions were launched to meet the needs of homemakers.

The preparation can be done by following this method:

• Open the kernel bag and add them in the popper
• Make sure that there is a bowl underneath the delivery hole. Turn it on for operation.
• As soon as the popcorns will be popped, they will come out in the bowl
• Wait until all the popcorns are popped and then add seasonings and butter on it and enjoy.

Conclusion

As we end our popcorn kernels review, we would like to say that there are various amazing products that you can find in our suggestion list.

We give you option for the best popcorn kernels for stove top and air poppers, etc. If you want to pick straightforwardly then our recommendation will be Orville Redenbacher’s Popcorn Kernels. 

Also, because many people are allergic to peanuts, the Franklin’s gourmet popcorn kernels are a perfect choice to make as they are peanut-free.