Gender-bending perfluoroalkyls are in the news, here, stating how the chemical is showing up in human blood and warning about the possible health problems it may cause.
These compounds are found in non-stick cookware, microwave popcorn bags, and fast food packaging, among other things. The story has a link to a list. Evidently the compounds show up in your blood because they leach into the food under heat.
So, popcorn lovers, here's a technique we've been using to save money, but may also be healthier because it uses a simple paper bag.
"Home Made" Microwave Popcorn
.25 cup popcorn kernels
1 paper lunch bag (roughly 5X3X10)
Fully unfold the bag and add the kernels to the bag. Fold the open end over tightly about a half inch and crease. Repeat one or two times.
Set the bag on its side in a microwave with a turntable and shake it to distribute the kernels evenly over the bottom. The rolled up end should be facing down.
Cook using the popcorn "sense" setting and open immediately when it's done and empty into a bowl to stop the cooking at once.
You may have to experiment depending on the features of your microwave so as not to start the bag on fire! It's never happened to me, and I never re-use the bag, but be forewarned and watch what you're doing.
Add melted butter and salt as desired.
