Is the industry doing anything about the potential health effects to workers?
Because of the potential health risks from repeated exposure, the industry has implemented changes to reduce workplace exposure to diacetyl, including implementing engineering controls such as closed mixing tanks, separate mixing rooms for butter flavors, requiring respirators for mixing room operators, and improving air circulation in facilities. Putting Risk in Perspective: Here’s What you Need to Know . . . Current research indicates that there may be a potential health risk for those individuals repeatedly exposed to high concentrations of diacetyl vapors for an extended period of time – such as individuals who work in facilities that manufacture or use certain flavorings containing diacetyl. There is no current evidence of a health risk for the general consumer who chooses to prepare and consume butter flavored popcorn as directed or any other product containing diacetyl as an artificial flavoring. About the International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation / Background and
