Baltimore Sun, "Potential hazards to consumers from flavoring agent unchecked"

Agencies yet to assess risk of inhaling vapors of chemical linked to workers' lung disease

          Millions of Americans are exposed regularly to vapors released when they heat products containing the same synthetic butter flavoring blamed for destroying the lungs of workers in popcorn and flavoring factories. But public health activists say no one in government has stepped up to assess whether consumers are at risk.
          The Food and Drug Administration has jurisdiction over products people ingest but reports it has no plans to investigate. Critics say the agency's response reflects a pattern of governmental indifference to the possible threat posed by breathing diacetyl, a butter flavoring agent.
          In addition to the FDA, two other agencies charged with protecting Americans' health have some authority in this area. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration holds sway over the workplace, and the Environmental Protection Agency deals with air pollutants.
          "The problem with a chemical like diacetyl is that the route of exposure - inhalation - does not fit easily the jurisdiction of any of these agencies," said David Vladeck, a Georgetown University law professor who spent 30 years at Public Citizen handling litigation on food and drug issues.

Learn more about diacetyl injuries and butter flavoring lawsuits.