An organic chemical,Diacetylis used to provide a buttery flavor to popcorn as well as other snacks. It can be found naturally in a number of dairy products and as a fermentation by-product. Produced either naturally or artificially, it is a common addition to microwave popcorns, butter-flavored cooking oils, and cheese-flavored snacks.
However, Diacetyl carries serious dangers to those who work with it on a regular basis. Though the FDA has determined Diacetyl to be safe for consumption, it has been linked to a severe lung disease in factory workers who, due to the nature of their jobs, inhale Diacetyl on a daily basis. This lung disease, called Bronchiolitis Obliterans (BO), is incurable.
Who is in Danger from Exposure to Diacetyl?
In general, BO is rare, but it occurs more frequently among people who work in the popcorn manufacturing industry. Workers who formulate flavorings are exposed to large amounts of Diacetyl during the course of their jobs, as are those who perform test pops of microwave popcorn bags. These two jobs lead to the highest amount of exposure to Diacetyl, as well as a heightened risk of developing BO.
Among the general population, BO has also occurred in a very few subjects who consume large quantities of microwave popcorn daily and as a result have continuously inhaled the steam from the bag. It is possible that these cases of BO also occurred due to exposure to Diacetyl.
Bronchiolitis Obliterans
Bronchiolitis Obliterans occurs when inflammation and scarring of the small airways in the lungs cause these airways to close off. As more and more airways are obliterated, breathing becomes more difficult.
The symptoms of BO are often mistaken for other respiratory problems such as emphysema, asthma, or even pneumonia. These symptoms include:
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- A dry cough
In cases of BO, the symptoms can develop over a period of time or can manifest suddenly. Those who experience respiratory symptoms and have been exposed to Diacetyl should be sure their doctor supplies a correct diagnosis. If caught early enough, the damage caused by BO can be stopped before it becomes extremely serious, but any damage that occurs to the lungs cannot be reversed. In very serious cases, the only possible recourse is to undergo a lung transplant.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to Diacetyl, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you determine if you are entitled to compensation. Several workers exposed to Diacetyl who have suffered from Bronchiolitis Obliterans have initiated lawsuits to recover damages for their injuries.
