Yes, Kristin, there is a need for a specially shaped popper. Also the
heat generated requires special material.
I once spent two very aggravating evenings scraping gunk from the
sides of my machine. It generates 1250 watts, so that might have been
part of the problem.
Air poppers are neat. I've learned to enjoy just the taste of the
popcorn with no additives.
Ciao!
Bev Kurtin
Hurst TX
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