First Microwave Popcorn With Canola Oil

May 18, 2010
Weaver Popcorn Co., under the Pop Weaver brand, introduces the first microwave popcorn made with canola oil.

Weaver Popcorn Co. Inc., Noblesville, Ind., introduces the first microwave popcorn made with canola oil, under its Pop Weaver brand. The new formulation of the popcorn enhances the rich, buttery taste and is lower in calories, total fat, saturated fat and sodium and contains zero trans fat.

Pop Weaver's canola oil blend is primarily comprised of "heart healthy" polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and supply omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, helping to protect against coronary heart disease, heart attacks and strokes.

And the popcorn provides other health benefits, as well, since it is a good source of whole grains and fiber. A study released last summer found that popcorn also provides healthy antioxidants. In fact, because it is unprocessed, according to the study, popped popcorn provides more antioxidants than any other snack food tested.

All three flavors in the Pop Weaver microwave popcorn line – Light Butter, Butter and Extra Butter – have been reformulated to incorporate canola oil. Even lovers of Pop Weaver Extra Butter microwave popcorn can enjoy an entire bag of their favorite snack without guilt. With only 260 calories, 2g saturated fat, and 0g trans fats per full bag popped, new Pop Weaver Extra Butter microwave popcorn will satisfy your butter craving without ruining your diet.

The Light Butter and Butter flavors – which carry the American Heart Assn.'s Heart Check designation, designating them as heart-healthy products – contain only 210 calories and 230 calories per full popped bag, respectively.

"Since popcorn is all we make, we're continually striving to make our product the best-tasting, healthiest popcorn, at the best possible price," says Mike Weaver, president and CEO. "We've worked for years to replace our previous oil blend with a canola oil blend, and we are proud to lead the industry with this innovation." Weaver adds that Pop Weaver remains a great snacking value, as well. "You can serve your family our popcorn for 21 cents per full bag popped. No other snack provides the nutrition that we do for such a low cost. And it's fun and delicious to eat."

Suggested retail price is $2 for an 8-pack and $5 for a 24-pack.