Vegan Popcorn
Three cheers for popcorn! Pip, pip, hurray! When it comes to choosing a healthy and satisfying snack, vegan popcorn is pretty much top of the list. It’s easy to turn snack time into a guilt-free fiesta when you choose a whole food option like this one—swapping out dairy-filled butter for ingenious plant-based alternatives that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. As for tasty toppings and sensational seasonings, the list is almost literally endless!
From movie nights to midnight munchies, these vegan popcorn brands are taking the ordinary to extraordinary. Ultimately proving that you don’t need even a small amount of animal products to create an incredible popcorn flavor. We’re sharing the best vegan popcorn brands that promote delicious taste, kindness, and the joy of guilt-free snacking!
If you’re anxious to learn more about this ancient snack food (we are!), keep reading!
Table of Contents
Is Popcorn Vegan?
Popcorn itself, in its most fundamental form, is vegan-friendly. It is made from dried corn kernels, a plant-based ingredient. Popcorn is essentially a whole grain snack that undergoes a simple process of heating to create the familiar, fluffy popcorn we know and love. This basic version of popcorn is entirely free from animal products.
However, when we talk about the vegan status of popcorn, it’s essential to distinguish between the popcorn itself and the toppings or flavorings that can be added to it, especially when you’re enjoying it pre-seasoned from a microwavable bag or at a movie theater. The concern for vegans often arises from the toppings commonly associated with popcorn, such as butter, which is not vegan. Of course, popcorn can be easily (and deliciously) made with vegan butter.
Is Movie Theater Popcorn Vegan?
Movie theater popcorn can be a bit of a conundrum for vegans. Movie theater popcorn is usually vegan, but not always. While popcorn itself is a plant-based snack made from corn kernels, the issue lies in the preparation and toppings. In its most basic form, plain popcorn is undoubtedly vegan-friendly. It’s the buttery topping that often poses the problem.
Traditional movie theater butter is made butter flavors giving it that signature savory, buttery taste. Surprisingly, many butter flavorings are in fact vegan!
Here are some key things to consider when determining if movie theater popcorn is vegan:
- Butter Substitute: Most theaters use synthetic butter flavorings that don’t contain dairy, but some do use animal-based butter. It’s worth asking the theater staff about their specific buttery topping to confirm whether it’s vegan, especially if you go there frequently.
- Toppings and Flavors: Beyond butter, theaters may offer a variety of flavorings and seasonings for popcorn. While some of these flavorings are vegan-friendly (such as nutritional yeast, salt, or hot sauce), others might contain non-vegan ingredients like cheese powders. Always check with the theater staff or the ingredient labels if available.
- Customization: Many theaters allow you to customize your popcorn order. If you’re unsure about the ingredients in the pre-made popcorn, consider asking for a plain, unbuttered batch and then adding your own vegan-friendly seasonings or toppings.
If you’re concerned about the vegan options at your local theater, you can always bring your own vegan snacks. Just be sure to check the theater’s policy on outside food and beverages before you do so.
Vegan Microwave Popcorn Brands
We love that these brands are vegan-friendly as well as delicious! All of these microwave popcorn brands can be found online or in your local grocery store. Add your own tasty toppings once popped or enjoy simply as prepared.
Golden Fluff
The Golden Fluff brand offers a premium snack known for its irresistibly light and crispy texture. Crafted with high-quality, non-GMO popcorn kernels, it offers a perfect balance of buttery flavor that delights taste buds. Kosher, sugar-free, vegan-friendly, and dairy-free.
Jolly Time
This well-established popcorn brand is recognized for its wide variety of delicious popcorn products. Known for using high-quality ingredients, Jolly Time offers a tasty and reliable popcorn experience for popcorn enthusiasts of all ages. The Simply Popped version is dairy-free, gluten-free, and kosher using only three simple ingredients.
Nature’s Crush
Popcorn by Nature’s Crush is a wholesome snack brand celebrated for its commitment to organic and natural ingredients. They focus on guilt-free indulgence with unique non-GMO flavor profiles. Choose from three delicious blends: Herb, Tex-Mex, and Zesty. Also, PFOA-free, gluten-free, and all-natural.
Popsmith
This amazing popcorn is the rockstar of snacks, whipping up small-batch, gourmet goodness that’s like a party in your mouth. With flavors that dance from sweet to savory, it’s a taste adventure in every kernel. Get ready to snack like a boss with Popsmith’s playful and premium popcorn creations! Both of Popsmith’s flavors, Oh Sooo Buttery and Classic Kettle, are both vegan! They even sell an adorable popcorn popper and Movie Night Bundle. Totally in love!
Smude’s
Smude’s popcorn is a flavor sensation known for its unique use of cold-pressed sunflower oil, creating a wholesome and delicious every day snack. This brand takes pride in its non-GMO popcorn kernels and three simply healthy ingredients. With a perfect balance of crispiness and natural goodness, Smude’s popcorn delivers a tasty treat for those seeking a wholesome snack.
Best Vegan-Friendly Packaged Popcorn Brands
Already prepared vegan popcorn is great for grab-and-go, parties, and anytime snacking. These best-selling brands are popular for a good reason! Their flavors are fantastic, though keep in mind that not every flavor is vegan-friendly. We’ve listed the most scrumptious plant-based options below:
Trader Joe’s
Although Trader Joe’s only has this one vegan-friendly bagged popcorn option, it’s still worth noting. It’s inexpensive, yummy, organic, and only has three ingredients: popcorn, olive oil, and sea salt. If you’re in TJ’s snack aisle, make sure to grab a bag (or two!) for an anytime, savory snack option.
Angie’s Boom Chicka Pop
Angie’s Boom Chicka Pop popcorn is known for its popular flavors and commitment to using non-GMO popcorn. The brand delivers a satisfying and crunchy snack experience. Vegan-friendly flavors include Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn and Salted Maple Kettle Corn.
Husk Organics
This delicious popcorn brand is a natural delight, known for its commitment to organic farming and sustainable practices. Grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, their non-GMO popcorn kernels result in a clean and wholesome snacking experience. Husk Organic offers a guilt-free and flavorful popcorn option for those who appreciate the goodness of organic ingredients. Choose from unique Pink Himalayan Salt, Kale and Broccoli, and Cayenne and Ginger flavors.
Lesser Evil
The superhero of guilt-free vegan snacking, Lesser Evil is rocking organic and non-GMO ingredients like capes. With flavors that are like a party for your taste buds and none of the fake stuff, it’s popcorn that’s seriously good and seriously good for you. It’s hard to choose between flavors like Chocolate Candy Candy, Homer’s Blend, Himalayan Pink Salt, White Chocolate and Matcha, White Cheddar, Avocado-licious, Fiery Hot, Oh My Ghee, Himalayan Gold, Himalayan Sweetness, Pumpkin Spice, and Celebration!
Safe and Fair
The sweet snack rebel! All the taste, none of the allergens. It’s popcorn that plays by its own rules – safe, fair, and totally irresistible! With mouthwatering flavors such as Strawberry Shortcake, Birthday Cake, Dark Chocolaty, Honeycrisp Apple Pie, Key Lime Pie, and Wedding Cake, you could serve any of these as an after-dinner dessert! Non-GMO, gluten-free, kosher, and absolutely awesome!
Skinny Pop
This popcorn brand is a great choice if you love a light and airy snack with simple and natural ingredients. Made with just popcorn, sunflower oil, and a sprinkle of salt, it’s a minimalist’s dream. Skinny Pop offers a guilt-free and delicious popcorn experience without compromising on flavor. Skinny Pop sells White Cheddar, Sea Salt & Pepper, Kettle Corn, Twist of Lime, and Organic flavors.
Vegan Popcorn Seasoning Options
If you’re a die-hard popcorn fan, there’s nothing better than finding new vegan popcorn seasonings to up the ante. Whether it’s in a powder, liquid, or spray, you can always have your own way with your favorite flavor enhancers. Pro-Tip: Spray your popcorn with a plant-based oil, vinegar, or even water before sprinkling on your seasonings for more staying power!
Powdered Vegan Popcorn Seasonings
- FreshJax (Salt-Free Spicy Popcorn)
- Grown As* Foods Truffle Cheddar
- Judee’s Vegan Cheddar and Sour Cream
- June Moon Spice Company (Dill Pickle and Sea Salt and Vinegar
- Kernel Seasonings (Caramel, Churro, Kettle Corn, Salt and Vinegar, and Sriracha)
- Nutritional Yeast (This All Day Cheesy Vegan Garlic flavor is great!)
- Oh My Spice Blends (Everything, Garlic Lovers, Pizza, and Sweet & Savory)
- Princeton Popcorn Company (Seasoning Salt and Sriracha Pepper)
- Tabitha Brown McCormick (Sunshine, Very Good Garlic, and Like Sweet Like Smoky)
- Tasty Bomb Vegan Popcorn Topping (Apple Pie, Caramel Corn, Cinnamon Swirl, Dill Pickle, Gingerbread, Pumpkin Pie, Spicy Chipotle, and Sugar Cookie)
Pour Over Toppings
- Amish Country Buttery Topping (accidentally-vegan)
- Dairy-Free Caramel
- Dutchman’s Buttery Coconut Oil
- Golden Barrel Butter-Flavored Coconut Oil & Salt
- Vegan Butter
- Vegan Chocolate
Vegan Popcorn Savory Sprays
- Malt or White Vinegar
- Oils (Coconut, Olive, Vegetable, Canola, etc.)
- Winona Pure Theater Style Popcorn Seasoning Spray
Vegan Popcorn Brand FAQs
Some flavors (but not all) of SkinnyPop popcorn are vegan. The vegan-friendly options to look out for are Original, Dairy-Free White Cheddar, Sea Salt & Pepper, and Sweet & Salty Kettle.
Sometimes. Movie theater concession areas that use a plant-based oil (such as canola, olive, coconut, or vegetable) instead of animal-based butter are vegan-friendly. A number of theaters also use margarine, which is usually accidentally vegan. Your best bet is to double-check the website or ask an associate at the concession stand before buying.
Yes! Popcorn in its natural state (without any butter) is simply corn. It’s the toppings that are put on the finished popcorn that are sometimes not vegan-friendly.
Tabitha Brown’s popcorn at Target was a limited release, and we are very hopeful that they will bring it back one day!
Popcorn Kernels: Back to Basics
When it comes to un-popped kernels, there are endless brands to choose from both in stores and online. Here are a list of the most popular, tried-and-true brands. If you look closely at each one, you’ll discover that there are at least a few different varieties to choose from, including white, yellow, red, and blue!
Popcorn Kernel Colors
- White – Smaller, crispy, crunchy, neutral flavor, compact. Best for creating caramel and kettle corn.
- Yellow – Large (pops to 45x its size), inexpensive, and easy to eat. Choose when making microwave, movie theater, and stovetop popcorn.
- Red – Smallest, soft, hull-less, crispy, and added antioxidants. A wise choice if popcorn hulls get stuck in or on your teeth.
- Blue – Not as well known, but have the highest amount of antioxidants and the most neutral flavor. Pick this type when using a home popcorn maker or if you want to cover in your own seasoning blend.
Fun Facts About Popcorn
- Did you know that popcorn pieces have been discovered in Mexico that date to approximately 3600 B.C.? Whoa!
- Corn kernels need a temperature of about 400-600 degrees to pop.
- Most corn used for popcorn is produced in the United States, specifically in Kentucky, Iowa, Nebraska, Indiana, and Illinois.
- To pop properly, the kernels need 14% humidity to burst open and create popcorn we can eat.
More Salty Snack Recipes to Try
- Hocus Pocus Peanut Butter Popcorn is the perfect choice if you love lots of extra crunch and sweetness added to your savory snack.
- When you want a little snack, but also a boost of antioxidants to your day, try this Superfood Kale Popcorn and Chocolate-Dipped Superfood Chips. Dee-lish!
- This Popcorn Brittle with a creamy chocolate drizzle is caramel-y and everything you want in a sweet and salty treat.
- These crispy Cheezy Kale Chips are the best option if you’re looking to eat more mineral-rich dark, leafy greens. Healthy and oh-so-good.
- Crispy Potato Skin Chips are for all the potato-lovers. Not only are you decreasing food waste, but you’ll be increasing your snacking satisfaction!
Homemade Vegan Popcorn
Equipment
- 1 sturdy pot with lid 3-6 quart size
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil , coconut, canola, or grapeseed are best
- ½ cup popcorn kernels
Instructions
- Place a sturdy pot on the stovetop over medium high heat.
- Add a tablespoon of oil (with a high smoking point, like coconut, canola, or grapeseed) to the bottom of the pan with 2-3 popcorn kernels. Cover with lid.
- When you hear the kernels popping, take off of the heat, remove the lid, and add a half cup of kernels. Place back on heated stovetop. Cover and shake well.
- While the popcorn pops, make sure to continue to shake occasionally so that the popcorn won't burn. When the time between pops begins to slow down, that's an indication that it's just about done.
- When the popcorn is done, take off of the heat, and turn off the burner. Pour popped corn into a large bowl and add any toppings you wish. Enjoy!
Notes
- Microwave Popcorn Method: Fill a brown paper sandwich bag, silicone popcorn maker, or glass popcorn popper with 1/3 cup of popcorn kernels. If using a bag, fold the top over at least twice before placing in the microwave. Cook in microwave for 1.5-2.5 minutes, depending on the power of your machine. Once you hear a lull in popping, that’s when to take the popcorn out. Pour into a good sized bowl and season with vegan butter or oil, salt, and other seasonings of your choice. This portion serves 1-2 people.
- Seasonings and Toppings: Vegan butter, flavored oil, nutritional yeast, vegan cheese, dry herbs and seasonings, melted chocolate, candy, pretzels, vegan caramel, or any thing you like!
Nutrition
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Cannot think of a movie night without a bag of this. We often run out of popcorn. With this recipe, we won’t have that problem any more! Thanks!
So much better than store bought!
So simple and so tasty!
Love the roundup of vegan popcorn brands and the easy popcorn recipe! Love the topping ideas!!
Popcorn is my all-time favorite snack! I love all of the new vegan popcorn options available now – yay! Hope you love this simple recipe and Happy Popping!
Olive oil, nutritional yeast, and salt!! The best vegan popcorn! Thanks for the suggestion of dried herbs… delicious!