Pop-Secret packaged popcorn was first introduced in 1985 by General Mills. Purchased by Diamond Foods in 2008 for $190,000,000, Campbell’s then acquired the father-company of Diamond Foods, Snyder-Lance, in 2018; therefore, Campbell’s had full ownership from 2018 to 2024, then later sold to Our Home, an independent snack company for an undisclosed amount. The version of Pop-Secret tested in this review was from the time period that Campbell’s had ownership.

Overall, Pop-Secret’s original flavor was average: a C student. The staleness of the popcorn and its texture were likely due to the March 16, 2024 expiration date. Perhaps it would have earned a B had it showed up a year earlier.

Though the instructions recommend 2-4 minutes of cook time, 2 minutes in the microwave was slightly too long, leading to slight burn, which can turn some away as well.

Although popcorn is a perfect, quick snack for any time of the day, Pop-Secret might not be the go-to company. That said,within a short amount of time, anybody in your house can easily prepare a light snack for the whole family. Considering the simplicity of the cooking process and instructions for any age, Pop-Secret is a reliable, if not totally tasty, household staple. 

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The instructions on the popcorn bag asked for a minimum of two minutes in the microwave; however, after following these instructions the popcorn kernels came out partially burnt. It might have been an issue with the microwave or perhaps the problem lay in the expired popcorn. For whichever reason, the char truly does add flavor to the snack, though it may not be for everyone.

Longevity must also be taken into account. The flavor of the popcorn and overall taste was remarkably satisfactory considering the snack had expired for over an entire year already. Though there was some staleness due to the process of time, the taste appeared untouched.

Overall, the foundation of reliability and convenience allow for Pop-Secret to remain as a widely enjoyed snack for everyone. Though they may mislead some into slightly over-cooked popcorn with their recommendation of 2-4 minutes in the microwave, Pop-Secret’s flavor remains atop the popcorn pyramid, particularly for consumers who like burnt popcorn. That same flavor is what allows for its outstanding longevity as well, considering that the sample of the product had been expired for over a year in time, the flavor was maintained and the popcorn retained its edibility.