In recent decades, the compound diacetyl has come under attention for its role in causing bronchiolitis obliterans. This condition is also known as “popcorn lung,” as popcorn factory workers often develop the condition from breathing in diacetyl, a butter-flavored chemical used in many foods. Despite the dangers of the compound, many corporations still use it in their food products and expose their workers to it.
If you’ve developed popcorn lung and suspect that diacetyl may be linked to it, consider mounting a product liability lawsuit with our help. Call 866-778-5500 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation with our product liability lawyers.
Despite the volatile characteristics of diacetyl vapor, it remains a common compound in food products and electronic cigarettes. Inhaling or touching the compound can result in skin injuries, damage to the airways, lung injuries, and even Alzheimers Disease. Numerous studies of humans exposed to diacetyl as well as animal trials show that the compound can damage the cell lining of soft tissues and cause popcorn lung, obstructive airway disease, and other harmful conditions.
In particular, an investigation by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has revealed a high risk for lung disease among workers who’s airways are exposed to diacetyl. However, this artificial butter flavoring is not the only potential culprit. Artificial flavorings for caramel, strawberry, butterscotch, and other compounds can also cause popcorn lung and similar conditions.
The workplaces that have the highest risk for popcorn lung related to artificial flavorings include, but are not limited to:
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) places diacetyl under the GRAS (Generally Regarded as Safe) designation for consumption. However, this only applies to end users consuming relatively small quantities without inhalation exposure. It does not account for the risks of inhaling diacetyl or coming into contact with high concentrations in an industrial setting. As such, growing numbers of activists have been pushing the FDA to reclassify diacetyl.
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Popcorn lung is a rare condition that can result from an infection of the airways or from inhalation exposure to toxic compounds. Those who regularly deal with such compounds have much higher risks of developing popcorn lung compared to the general populace. The condition progresses in stages and is incurable, and those who suffer from the condition require lifelong care to manage their symptoms. Early symptoms include:
These are common conditions, so popcorn lung can often go overlooked for long stretches of time. However, it’s possible to diagnose popcorn lung via bronchoscopy, lung biopsy, lung function tests, and imaging tests.
Popcorn lung is a condition that stays with most victims for the rest of their lives. If you developed the condition due to the negligence of an employer, then you shouldn’t have to bear the costs alone. At the law firm of Console & Associates, P.C., we’re dedicated to righting wrongs. We’ll help you take your case to court and secure damages for your medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering. Call us at 866-778-5500 or fill out our online form to take your first step toward justice.
