Workers in food manufacturing are getting sick from exposure to chemicals called diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione. These artificial flavoring chemicals are used to add a buttery taste and smell to foods. Exposed workers are developing serious lung diseases, and many are now filing lawsuits against the companies that make these flavorings.
The Background
This problem first came to light in the early 2000s when microwave popcorn factory workers developed a severe lung condition called bronchiolitis obliterans (sometimes called "popcorn lung"). Most companies stopped using diacetyl in popcorn by 2007 due to public concern. Unfortunately, these chemicals have quietly returned and are now used in many other food products.
The Problem Today
Currently, there are no official government rules limiting worker exposure to these chemicals. Health agencies like NIOSH and ACGIH recommend keeping exposure very low (between 1 and 25 parts per billion), but companies aren't required to follow these guidelines.
Health Problems Caused by Exposure
Workers exposed to diacetyl can develop several serious conditions:
- Bronchiolitis obliterans - severe scarring of the small airways in the lungs
- Chronic lung diseases
- Asthma
- Emphysema
- Eye and skin
Common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath during activity
- Persistent coughing
- Wheezing
- Muscle pain
- Fevers
- Night sweats
Industries at Risk
Federal health investigators have identified workers in these facilities as being at risk:
- Snack food plants
- Dairy plants
- Coffee roasting facilities
- Confection and candy plants
- Pet food manufacturing
- Cooking oil facilities
- Flavoring manufacturing plants
New Jersey Cases
In New Jersey, workers at several flavoring companies have been exposed and are now pursuing legal cases. The state has numerous flavoring manufacturers, including both large international suppliers and smaller local companies.
Some of the major companies with New Jersey facilities include Givaudan, Firmenich, International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF), Symrise, and many others operating throughout the state.
What Workers Should Know
If you work in food manufacturing, especially in facilities that use artificial flavorings, and you're experiencing breathing problems or other symptoms, you may have been exposed to these harmful chemicals. It's important to:
- See a doctor and mention your workplace exposure
- Report your symptoms to your employer
- Consider speaking with a workers' compensation attorney
The health effects of diacetyl exposure are serious and can be permanent. Workers who develop these conditions may be entitled to compensation.
Recommended Citation: Gelman, Jon, Understanding Diacetyl: A Workplace Health Concern (10/15/2025) https://workers-compensation.blogspot.com/2025/10/understanding-diacetyl-workplace-health.html
Blog: Workers' Compensation
LinkedIn: JonGelman
LinkedIn Group: Injured Workers Law & Advocacy Group
Author: "Workers' Compensation Law" West-Thomson-Reuters
Mastodon:@gelman@mstdn.social
Blue Sky: jongelman@bsky.social
© 2025 Jon L Gelman. All rights reserved.
Attorney Advertising
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
No comments:
Post a Comment