Hulless Popcorn: What Is It & Is It Better Than Regular Popcorn?

Who doesn’t love snacking on a bucket of popcorn every time you go to the movies? There's a reason (several, actually) why it's been a go-to snack for years.

But if there's one downside to popcorn, it's pesky kernels getting stuck in between your teeth — or worse — your throat.  

This is where hulless popcorn comes to the rescue. 

But what is hulless popcorn, exactly? And is it even possible for popcorn to be hulless? 

Let's find out: 

Is Hulless Popcorn a Myth?

Before we discuss whether hulless popcorn is a myth or not, you need to understand how popcorn kernels pop:

When you heat up kernels in a microwave or stovetop popcorn popper, the moisture inside them becomes steam and creates pressure so strong that it makes their shells — aka the hulls — burst.

The soft, fluffy interior of the popcorn is now on the outside while the hulls are on the inside. 

With that, you'll see why it's impossible to have popcorn without a hull. You need the hull to build pressure inside the kernel. Otherwise, your popcorn won't pop and you’ll be left with duds.

What Is Hulless Popcorn Really?

So if hulless popcorn isn’t actually possible, what do brands sell when they claim their popcorn is hulless?

Popcorn that’s labeled “hulless” is basically popcorn with smaller kernels. Smaller kernels equal smaller hulls, so the result is popcorn that's softer, easier to digest, and less likely to get stuck in between teeth or braces. 

Think of it as virtually hull-free instead of 100% hulless.

How to Prepare Hulless Popcorn

There are no special steps to follow when you make hulless popcorn. Pop it the way you'd pop other popcorn varieties, whether you're using a microwave or an air popper or making a huge batch of stovetop popcorn with your Popsmith Popper. It’s super simple to make and just as delicious. 

Hulless popcorn can also be healthy when you customize it at home. Popcorn is a whole grain and has helpful antioxidants. Those antioxidants can help combat disease and keep your body strong — even more reason why popcorn is the best snack ever, don't you think?

4 Best Brands of Hulless Popcorn

While it's impossible for popcorn to be hulless, there are still brands promoting theirs as hull-free. 

You know now that these aren't truly hulless, but they do have the smaller hulls we talked about.

If you want to give hulless a popcorn a try, check out these popcorn brands:

1. Black Jewell Crimson Red Gourmet Popcorn Kernels 

Image from Black Jewell

Black Jewell popcorn not only has a very small hull, but it’s also unique in many other ways. The dark-colored kernels are eye-catching and exciting. 

While the red kernels may pop open to reveal a bright, white center, the popcorn does have a rich and interesting flavor that’s far more intense than other popcorns. You can snag this popcorn in already popped popcorn bags or make it yourself. 

We also love Black Jewell as a company because they plant pollinator plots to help the honey bee population. They also contribute to pollinator advocacy groups that help make sustainable farming possible. It’s a great popcorn brand with a great cause.

2. Dutchman’s White Popcorn

Dutchman’s White Popcorn has medium white kernels. It’s vegan and free of preservatives and gluten.

This white popcorn has a very small hull. It’s actually the closest to hulless out of all the popcorn we tried. So when you choose this brand, you won’t have to worry about hard hulls ruining your snack time. 

Grab a four-pound bag of Dutchman’s popcorn on Amazon and you’ll be one happy snacker!

3. Amish Country Popcorn Medium White Hulless

Image from Amish Country Popcorn

Amish Country Popcorn is a clean brand adored by popcorn lovers. All of their popcorn is grown in Berne, Indiana, and is guaranteed non-GMO and additive-free. 

Their Medium White Hulless popcorn is one of their best sellers. These kernels have tender hulls that are quite pleasant to bite into. You might also want to try their Baby White and Ladyfinger flavors.

Their popcorn comes in different sizes. You can try out a 14oz pack first to see how you like it, and if you end up wanting more, they offer a whopping 25-pound bag — enough for countless parties or cozy evenings with a book.

4. Riehle’s Select Popping Corn Hulless Butter Microwave Popcorn

If you’re looking for hulless microwave popcorn, Riehle’s is the brand for you. Making their microwave popcorn is a breeze and will upgrade your movie nights thanks to its soft, tender kernels.

Just don’t get shocked when you pop a bag of Riehle’s popcorn. Spoiler alert: it comes out small. Lots of customer reviews mention the tiny size of the popcorn.

However, we don’t see this as a bad thing. The small size means the hulls are barely noticeable. Hulless popcorn seekers will be happy with this popcorn brand.

Learn More About All Things Popcorn

True hulless popcorn may not exist but there are brands out there that make popcorn with small, practically unnoticeable hulls. You can eat this type of popcorn without worry — no need for a toothpick to take those annoying hulls out of your teeth and gums. 

Let us know which popcorn is your favorite and remember to come back for more interesting popcorn recipes, articles, and inspiration!