Sixteen factory workers in two US states have been diagnosed with a severe lung disease that experts from the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health are linking to their work with large vats of artificial butter flavoring.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The Institute issued a report in August detailing the nine Missouri workers who developed bronchiolitis obliterans, a rare and permanently disabling lung disorder, and a further seven workers who experienced other lung problems after working with the artificial flavoring.


Four of the workers diagnosed with bronchiolitis obliterans are currently on the waiting list for lung transplants.


Experts have stressed that the cases have not revealed any risks to consumers, as the disease has only occured in those who inhaled large amounts of the liquid flavouring.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Food Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Winning five categories in the 2025 Just Food Excellence Awards, Centric Software is setting the pace for digital transformation in food and FMCG. Explore how its integrated PLM and PXM suite delivers faster launches, smarter compliance and data-driven growth for complex, multi-channel product portfolios.

Discover the Impact