Employees at a US microwave popcorn plant believe their work has exposed them to hazardous fumes that have caused a fatal lung condition.

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Workers at the Gilster-Mary Lee microwave popcorn plant in Missouri have developed a fatal lung obstruction, at ten times the rate of the general population. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health reports similar cases in three other popcorn facilities, according to Lloyd’s Product Liability International.


Thirty workers at the Gilster-Mary Lee plant have filed suit for compensation against International Flavours and Fragrances, the producer of the butter flavouring agent they believe has caused the problem.

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