Popcorn Maker Drops Chemical Linked to Ailment

INDIANAPOLIS — Weaver Popcorn Co., one of the nation’s top microwave popcorn makers, has switched to a new butter flavoring, replacing a chemical linked to a lung ailment in popcorn plant workers.

The Indianapolis-based company began shipping new butter- flavored microwave popcorn a few weeks ago that contain no diacetyl, a chemical undergoing national scrutiny because of cases of bronchiolitis obliterans, a rare life-threatening disease often called popcorn lung.

Company President Mike Weaver said that while his workers have experienced no such cases, the family owned business wanted to lead the popcorn industry and allay consumer fears by eliminating the chemical for its product line.

Originally published by Associated Press.

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