Medical News Alert - Exposure to Microwave Popcorn Fumes

An Associated Press article dated September 5, 2007 reported that recent warnings to popcorn factory workers about the dangers of lung disease from Diacetyl exposure, have now been extended to consumers. Symptoms of bronchiolitis obliterans, often referred to as “popcorn lung” include:

• Fixed airway obstruction
• Scarring of the lung
• Inflammation of the lung
• Dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Diminished lung capacity

A pulmonary specialist at the National Jewish Medical and Research Center in Denver, Colorado contacted various federal agencies informing them that he believed that he has a patient who developed lung disease from the fumes of microwaving popcorn several times a day for years. Investigations are still being conducted to understand the potential harms of microwave popcorn consumption, research results have yet to be released.

Bronchiolitis obliterans is thought to be caused by exposure to Diacetyl, a chemical used to create the buttery flavoring of microwave popcorn and candy. This potentially fatal obstructive lung disease causes victims to slowly suffocate within their own bodies. The Washington Post has previously reported the continually rising number of cases linked to Diacetyl and bronchiolitis obliterans in microwave popcorn factory workers. There has been at least one death associated with popcorn workers lung to date.

The only treatment available for bronchiolitis obliterans is a lung transplant.

In response to the letter written concerning the consumer who has developed lung disease allegedly due to exposure to Diacetyl, the FDA indicated that it is “carefully considering the safety and regulatory issues it raises”. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) currently does not regulate the use of Diacetyl in the food industry, but it conducting its own investigations as more people continue to come forward with similar claims. Additionally, the EPA is doing research regarding the safety of Diacetyl fumes.

A number of lawsuits have been filed by popcorn factory workers with Diacetyl-linked claims. In 2005 a Missouri jury awarded a worker $2.7 million for his condition, and since 2002 flavoring manufacturers have paid victims over $100 million in damages for related occupational conditions. In July 2006 the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the United Food and Commercial Workers asked OSHA to enact a temporary standard of protection for popcorn flavoring workers in order to determine the potential hazardous effects of Diacetyl.

If you or someone you know believes they may be suffering as a result of inhaling popcorn fumes, either in the workplace or at home, please consult our chemical exposure attorney immediately. The initial symptoms of bronchiolitis obliterans are often confused with less dangerous conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, or bronchitis, so early diagnosis could be key to preventing a lifelong health struggle. Let our dedicated and aggressive defective drug attorneys help you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today.