October is National Popcorn Poppin’ Month, a time to honor America’s favorite magical, munchable maize. You seldom need an excuse to grab a handful of these simple kernels of goodness, but a month long celebration gives you plenty of time and justification to try new recipes. Whether you make it sweet, savory or salty, plain or pumped up, you’ll join your fellow Americans in consuming some 16 billion quarts this year.

October is chosen because it marks the triumphant end to the labor of the spring and summer months. As farmers head into the fields to gather the crops, families and friends gather to celebrate this beloved snack food.

Why do we love popcorn? How can we not? Popcorn is the fun food we eat when we’re happy. It’s the surprise food with “before” and “after” pictures that would make a Hollywood starlet cry for a makeover. It’s the science experiment food kids are entertained and educated by as it miraculously changes from kernel to fluff in an instant, hard to soft, non-edible to edible. It’s the simple pleasures food that reminds us to slow down. And it’s the economical food costing mere pennies per serving.

Popcorn also is a whole grain, which makes it a good-for-you food. As a whole grain, popcorn provides carbohydrates and fiber to the diet and is naturally low in fat and calories. That’s good news for your waistline. It’s an ideal in-between meals snack because it satisfies, but doesn’t spoil your appetite.

Yet when all is said and done, popcorn is simply a great tasting food. Surprise your family and friends with a popcorn treat today in honor of National Popcorn Poppin’ Month. For tasty recipes, fun facts, popcorn trivia and more, visit www.popcorn.org.