One of Americans’ Favorite Snacks Still Toxic
December 17, 2009 by Jeff
Filed under Featured, Health News
Federal health investigators deemed that butter flavoring used in microwave popcorn is still unsafe and toxic. Back in 2004, a Missouri factory worker was awarded $20 million after developing a debilitating and irreversible lung condition, which required a lung transplant. He apparently got this from inhaling toxic fumes from the oil used to make the ubiquitous butter flavoring in popcorn. In July, 2005, another factory worker in Missouri was awarded $2.7 million as a result of developing the same lung condition. In 2007, a 53 year old self-professed popcorn addict developed severe breathing issues from inhaling the fumes from butter popcorn after taking it out of the microwave. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), a toxic chemical named diacetyl was the culprit. Consequently, popcorn manufacturers were forced to switch flavor ingredients.
According to a recent report from NIOSH, the diacetyl substitute closely resembles…..well, diacetyl. And, these new substitutes come with the same dangerous side effects as well. Tell your friends, family, and co-workers. As the saying goes, “caveat emptor.”
Sources:
The Independent: September, 2007
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Jeff is a family man, news/information junkie, certified personal trainer and holistic wellness enthusiast. He's passionate about disease prevention, the amazing inner workings of the human body, sports, exercising, nature, traveling, and spending time with his family...not necessarily in that order.
