If you eat popcorn that has been slightly over-microwaved, it may taste burnt or have an unpleasant, charred flavor. Over-microwaving popcorn can cause the kernels to burn, releasing a bitter taste and potentially producing an undesirable smell. The texture of the popcorn might also become overly dry or tough.
Eating slightly overcooked popcorn is not harmful to your health, but it may not be enjoyable due to the altered taste and texture. It's best to avoid consuming burnt popcorn, as it can be unappetizing and may ruin your snacking experience.
To achieve the best results when microwaving popcorn, follow the manufacturer's instructions on the popcorn packaging. Most microwave popcorn bags have guidelines for cooking times based on the wattage of your microwave oven, ensuring the popcorn pops correctly without burning. Additionally, you can listen for the popping sounds to slow down to gauge when the popcorn is ready, as each microwave's performance can vary.
If you accidentally over-microwave popcorn, it's a good idea to start over with a new bag and be more careful with the cooking time to get the desired outcome. Always use caution when removing the popcorn bag from the microwave, as it can be hot, and steam may escape when opening the bag.