The 5 Best Organic Popcorn Options For Healthy Snacking 

From sweet and salty to buttery, you can't deny that popcorn is a pretty tasty snack. It is healthy, delicious, nutritious, and satisfying. No wonder popcorn is a popular in-between meal snack, late-night munchies' choice, and the ultimate companion for movie nights.

As a popcorn enthusiast who values healthy eating, I can't help but wonder about the genetic modification of my favorite snack. Corn is the most widely grown crop in the US, most of which is genetically modified. So, is my popcorn also a GMO product? As it turns out, popcorn is made from a unique type of corn known as flint corn, which accounts for a small fraction of all corn grown in North America. As of now, there is no genetically modified popcorn available on the market. However, not all popcorn products are necessarily non-GMO. While the popcorn kernels themselves may be non-GMO, other ingredients and additives that accompany them may not be, such as butter, oil, sugar, seasoning, and flavoring agents. If you're looking to avoid GMOs in your popcorn, look for USDA-certified organic products or carry the "non-GMO project verified" logo on their packaging.

To assist you in your search for the perfect organic popcorn, we conducted a taste test of several popular brands available on the market. Based on our findings, we've compiled a guide to help you prepare for your next movie night. Whether you're a fan of traditional buttery popcorn or enjoy more adventurous flavors, there's an organic option out there to suit your tastes.

What to look for when shopping for organic popcorn

Certification

Look for organic popcorn that is certified by a reputable organization such as USDA Certified Organic, Non-GMO Project, or Certified Naturally Grown. This ensures that the popcorn is made from non-GMO, pesticide-free, and environmentally sustainable corn kernels.

Packaging

Opt for popcorn that comes in eco-friendly packaging. Avoid products that use excessive plastic or non-recyclable materials. If you are purchasing microwave popcorn, be sure to check the popcorn bag liner material. Several popcorn bag liners are coated with PFOAs and other chemicals that can leach into your popcorn, posing a potential health risk. These harmful chemicals have been associated with various health problems, including cancer, thyroid disease, and other health complications.

Nutrition Facts and Ingredients

Even though popcorn is fairly healthy, you still want to check the nutrition facts and the calories, fat, sodium, and added sugar content. Also, check the ingredients list to see if there are any additives or artificial flavors in the popcorn. Organic popcorn should only contain organic corn kernels and, if flavored, organic seasonings.

Taste and texture

While the quality of the popcorn may vary from brand to brand, look for popcorn that has a fluffy and tender texture, is easy to pop, and has a satisfying and delicious taste.

Types of Popcorn

Popcorn Kernels

Making popcorn kernels on the stovetop is a traditional way and the best way of making homemade popcorn. You get to control what spice and flavor to add to your popcorn kernels and pop away on the stovetop.

Microwave Popcorn

Pre-packaged microwave popcorn is the most convenient and easiest way to make hot popcorn while still getting that homemade feel. Except you won't need to put as much effort as you would like making it from scratch with popcorn kernels. However, these pre-packaged microwave popcorn are often filled with salt, fat, and chemicals. Not to mention, the popcorn bags themselves are often coated with chemicals and lined with plastics. These factors have raised health concerns and have been found to have a negative impact on your health. 

Popped Popcorn

Purchasing already-popped popcorn is a super convenient and easy way to snack. However, you won't get that hot and pungent aroma experience that you would with organic popcorn kernels or pre-packaged popcorn. But on the other hand, you won't have to risk burning popcorn and setting off the fire alarm.

Best Organic Popcorn and Popcorn Kernels

Arrowhead Mills Organic Yellow Popcorn Kernels

Best organic yellow Popcorn Kernels

Nothing tastes better than popping your own organic yellow popcorn kernels on the stovetop with organic popcorn kernels. While buying already popped popcorn is convenient, you can't beat fresh and hot popped organic yellow popcorn right off the stovetop. Made from non-GMO, organic yellow corn kernels, it ensures you get a wholesome and nutritious snack. The organic yellow popcorn kernels are easy to pop and have a fantastic texture and flavor. Gluten-free friendly, these corn kernels will pop into fluffy, tender popcorn bursting with that classic popcorn taste. The aroma alone will make you eager to dig in!

What we love about these organic yellow popcorn kernels is their versatility. You can enjoy it with a sprinkle of sea salt for a simple yet satisfying snack, but it can also be dressed up with various toppings, spices, and herbs to suit any taste preference. It's perfect for movie nights, parties, or even as a quick snack on the go. And if you are in the mood to turn your popcorn into a delicious snack, combine your popcorn with seeds, nuts, and honey and make it into popcorn balls. 

Our Ratings

Overall Rating: 4.6/5 Taste: 4.6/5 Ease To Pop: 4.5/5 Value for Money: 4.5/5

Quinn Just Sea Salt Popcorn

Most Convenient Choice

If you are a classic microwave popcorn fan, you must try Quinn Just Sea Salt Popcorn. Simply pop the bag in the microwave, and in minutes you will have a bag of steamy hot popcorn that is ready to be shared (if you wish). And if you change your mind and want some fancy popcorn, add your favorite seasoning to the pouch, and in minutes, you will have a bag full of goodness.

Made from organic, non-GMO Project verified corn kernels and sea salt. You would appreciate this simple ingredient organic popcorn that is free from harmful chemicals that are easy to prep. This gluten-free friendly microwave organic popcorn is easy to prepare, and it popped up into fluffy, tender popcorn that was full of flavor. We loved the perfectly salted popcorn, giving it just the right amount of seasoning without being overpowering. You will also appreciate the fact that this popcorn is incredibly convenient. The packaging is microwave-safe and made from eco-friendly composted paper free from plastic, chemical coatings, PFOAs, or other scary ingredients. With the pre-packed popcorn kernels, you can enjoy a healthy snack at a moment of notice. Plus, it's a great option for movie nights or parties, as it's easy to share and enjoy with friends and family.

Our Ratings

Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Taste: 4.8/5 Ease To Pop: 4.5/5 Value for Money: 4.6/5

Lesser Evil Organic Popcorn, Himalayan Pink Salt

Best Popped Popcorn

Lesser Evil's Himalayan Pink Salt Organic Popcorn is a wholesome and delicious snack that will leave your taste buds wanting more! This popcorn is not only organic but also gluten-free, vegan, and made with non-GMO corn, making it a perfect snack option for those with dietary restrictions or anyone who values healthy snacking. The salt is perfectly balanced, enhancing the popcorn's flavor without being overpowering.

This organic popcorn stands out from its competitors because it is made from the highest quality, non-GMO organic corn kernels, popped to perfection, and seasoned with Himalayan pink salt. If you are unfamiliar with Himalayan pink salt, it is a natural and mineral-rich alternative to traditional table salt. This means each bite of this crunchy popcorn is not only packed with flavor but contains 84 trace minerals that provide a variety of health benefits. Unlike other popped popcorn, Lesser Evil's Himalayan Pink Salt Organic Popcorn is made with quality ingredients like extra-virgin coconut oil and Himalayan pink salt. With a variety of six unique and exciting flavors to choose from, you're sure to find one that perfectly satisfies your cravings.

Our Ratings

Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Taste: 4.8/5 Ease To Pop: N/A Value for Money: 4.9/5

Living Intentions Superfood Popcorn

Best Superfood Popcorn

Living Intentions' Superfood Popcorn is a crunchy and flavorful snack that nourishes your body and satisfies your taste buds! This popcorn is not your average snack - it's made from a unique blend of superfoods, herbs, and spices, giving it a nutritional boost you won't find in traditional popcorn. Living Intentions' Superfood Popcorn is the perfect snack for anyone who wants to indulge in something tasty while also getting a nutritional boost. Living Intentions' Superfood Popcorn is a great snacking option, whether you're looking for a quick mid-day snack or a guilt-free treat to enjoy during movie night.

Available in four different flavors: tandoori turmeric, salsa verde, cinnamon twist, and berry superfood. Each is made with organic, non-GMO corn kernels that are popped to perfection and seasoned with a blend of nutrient-rich ingredients. Each flavor combination is designed to provide different benefits, from boosting energy and immunity to promoting healthy digestion and reducing inflammation. Not only are these popcorn packed with superfoods, but it's also gluten-free, vegan, and made with all-natural ingredients.

Our Ratings

Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Taste: 4.5/5 Ease To Pop: N/A Value for Money: 4.6/5

Lesser Evil Organic Popcorn Kernels

Premium Choice

Lesser Evil's Organic Popcorn Kernels are the perfect starting point for creating your own delicious and healthy popcorn at home! Crafted from premium-quality, non-GMO organic corn kernels, these popcorn kernels are free from harmful additives and preservatives, and boast a wealth of delicious flavors and wholesome nutrition. Additionally, they're certified organic, gluten-free, and vegan, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious snackers. The popcorn kernels are a breeze to pop and produce popcorn with a fantastic texture and flavor. They transform into fluffy, tender popcorn that boasts the classic and beloved popcorn taste, bursting with freshness and deliciousness.

Lesser Evil's Organic Popcorn Kernels are perfect for those who want to take control of their snacking and create a snack that fits their unique taste and dietary needs. Making your own popcorn at home is not only fun and easy but also a great way to ensure that you're snacking on something healthy and wholesome. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, you can easily customize the flavor of your popcorn by adding your favorite seasoning or toppings.

Our Ratings

Overall Rating: 4.6/5 Taste: 4.8/5 Ease To Pop: 4.8/5 Value for Money: 4.6/5

How We Picked

We take great care in selecting the organic popcorn products that we recommend to our readers. Our process involves a thorough evaluation based on personal experience, customer reviews from various retail platforms, and insights shared by taste testers. We prioritize essential factors such as the quality of ingredients, ease of preparation, flavor, and taste to ensure that we only suggest the highest quality products to our audience. By doing so, we strive to provide valuable and trustworthy recommendations to make your snacking experience as enjoyable as possible.