Why do microwave ovens have a popcorn button when all the bags say not to use they button?

Microwave ovens often come with a pre-programmed popcorn button for convenience, but it is mainly intended as a quick and easy way to pop popcorn in the microwave without having to manually set the cooking time. However, many popcorn bags carry warnings against using this button because it may not always produce ideal results and could potentially lead to overcooking, burnt popcorn, or even fire hazards.

Here are a few reasons why popcorn bags may advise against using the popcorn button:

- Varying Popcorn Brands: Different popcorn brands may have different popping times and require specific microwave power levels to achieve the best results. Pre-set popcorn buttons in microwaves may not be calibrated for all popcorn brands and may not provide the optimal popping time for a particular bag.

- Popcorn Bag Variations: Popcorn bags come in various sizes and with different amounts of kernels. The popcorn button may not be able to accommodate these variations and may not heat the popcorn evenly, resulting in unpopped kernels or burnt popcorn.

- Microwave Power Differences: Microwave ovens vary in their power output, which can affect the popping time of popcorn. The popcorn button may not be designed to adjust for different power levels and could result in overcooked or undercooked popcorn.

- Fire Risk: Overcooking popcorn can lead to burning or even a fire. The popcorn button may not have built-in safety features or sensors to prevent overheating and potential hazards, especially if the popcorn bag is left unattended.

- Popcorn Bag Instructions: Popcorn bag manufacturers provide specific instructions on the bag for cooking their popcorn in a microwave. These instructions are carefully tailored for their product's optimal popping time and microwave settings. Deviating from these instructions, even by using the microwave's popcorn button, may yield subpar results or safety concerns.

Therefore, it's always advisable to follow the instructions provided on the popcorn bag and adjust the cooking time as needed based on your microwave's power level and the quantity of popcorn.

If your microwave has a popcorn button, you can still use it for convenience, but it's essential to be cautious and monitor the popcorn closely. Consider using a lower power setting than recommended and stopping the microwave before all the kernels have popped to avoid overcooking and burning.