Popcorn makers removing chemical

Back in May, a Washington Post article detailed the effects of diacetyl of workers at popcorn factories. Known to some as "popcorn lung", the chemical causes a rare but fatal lung disease, which only a transplant could cure.

Now four major popcorn manufacturers (the Orville Redenbacher, Act II, Pop Secret and Jolly Time brands) have agreed to remove the chemical. The only question that remains is what is being done to help those already affected. The linked article says that over 500 lawsuits are pending, and that many settlements have happened confidentially, but the House has also passed a bill to limit damages. Sounds like a few corporations want to have their cake and eat it, too.

Popcorn makers removing chemical