Dr. Cecile Rose of National Jewish Medical Center and Research in Denver notified the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency about a patient who contracted the lung disease from diacetyl fumes that came from making popcorn in his home microwave oven. Diacetyl is commonly used as an artificial butter flavoring in microwave popcorn and other foods.

“The reported case of a consumer diagnosed with popcorn lung underscores the need for our public health agencies to take this hazard more seriously, not only for workers, but for consumers as well” said Woolsey. “While OSHA is dragging is feet over the numerous reports of workers who have died or suffered serious lung disease from exposure to diacetyl, this new case raises concerns that consumers may be at risk as well.”

Woolsey and Rep. George Miller (D-CA), chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee, have introduced legislation that would require OSHA to issue an emergency standard protecting workers against exposure to diacetyl in popcorn and flavor manufacturing facilities. The House Education and Labor Committee approved the measure by voice vote earlier this year and the bill is now pending on the House floor.