Halfpops - popular half-popped popcorn for those who likes extra crunchy experience
Popcorn pops at a moisture level of 10 to 16 percent, but the optimal moisture level is considered to be 13.5-14%. For oil poppers, 13.5% is preferred, while 14% is better for hot air popping.
If the kernels are more humid, many of them may not pop completely because the excess moisture softens the kernel shell, preventing sufficient pressure build-up for a full pop.
However, there are fans of half-popped kernels who enjoy their extra crunchiness. There is even a popcorn producer, Halfpops, that offers a whole line of half-popped kernels with various flavors.
According to the legend, the producer increases the moisture by soaking the kernels in boiling water, then drying and popping them.