Popcorn Lung Roadhouse Blues 2008
Occupational exposure to the vapors from artificial butter flavor can cause bronchiolitis obliterans, a debilitating and sometimes fatal lung disease. Dozens of workers at microwave popcorn factories or factories where these flavors are produced have become sick, and at least one worker has died. Others are awaiting lung transplants. Thousands more workers are exposed at factories that make or use flavorings throughout the country. This is a case study in failings of our public health protection system. For more than five years, government scientists have conducted studies that have identified ways to protect workers and prevent this illness. In the face of mounting scientific evidence of a serious hazard, and recommendations on ways to prevent the disease, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has done virtually nothing. Diacetyl is a commonly used food flavoring and is the primary constituent of artificial butter flavoring. There is compelling scientific evidence linking occupational exposure to diacetyl to bronchiolitis obliterans, a debilitating and sometimes fatal lung disease. In the general population, bronchiolitis obliterans is rare. In the last few years, however, numerous cases have been reported to or identified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) among workers employed in factories where flavorings containing diacetyl are produced or used. Dozens of workers employed at microwave popcorn packaging plants have …
Hilarious!