Coloradoan Wins $7 Million In Popcorn Lung Lawsuit
A suburban Denver man who was diagnosed with “popcorn lung,” possibly from inhaling the artificial butter smell of the microwave popcorn he regularly ate, has won a $7.2 million verdict against various food companies.
Wayne Watson’s attorney, Ken McClain, said a federal jury granted the award against Gilster-Mary Lee Corp., The Kroger Co. and Dillon Companies Inc. after he developed respiratory problems in 2007.
Watson previously settled claims against the flavor developer FONA International Inc., formerly Flavors of North America Inc.
Watson argued the companies failed to warn consumers that inhaling the buttery aroma could put them at risk of lung injury.
KCNC-TV in Denver reported defense attorneys had argued Watson’s health problems stemmed not from popcorn but from his years of working with carpet-cleaning chemicals.
- Surviving the ‘Silver Tsunami’: Closing the Talent, Skills Gap in Underwriting
- Palm Beach Revolt Forces Sylvester Stallone to Abandon Mansion Sea Barrier
- Cleveland Clinic Plans New Hospital, Larger Outpatient Center in South Florida
- Kentucky Supreme Court Overturns Escape Clause Meaning, Affirms Roof Collapse