ConAgra Foods has changed the recipe for its microwave popcorn after the product was linked to a lung disease.

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The US food group unveiled the new recipe for its Orville Redenbacher’s and ACT II brands today (17 December) and said the products would no longer include the additive diacetyl.


Diacetyl gives popcorn its creamy, buttery taste but has been linked to illnesses among factory workers.


ConAgra decide to remove the additive “to address any consumer perceptions about diacetyl and to make our popcorn factories as safe as possible”, said Stan Jacot, vice president of marketing for ConAgra’s popcorn business. “We want to assure our consumers they can continue to enjoy their favourite popcorn with complete confidence.”

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