No, Vaping Doesn’t Cause Popcorn Lung — Let’s Set the Record Straight

In the world of public health messaging, few myths have spread as far and wide — and caused as much unnecessary panic — as the idea that vaping causes "popcorn lung." 

If you've heard this claim, you're not alone. But here’s the truth: Popcorn lung is not caused by nicotine vaping. Let’s unpack this common misconception and explain what’s really going on. 

🍿 What Is Popcorn Lung? 

“Popcorn lung” is the nickname for a rare and serious condition called bronchiolitis obliterans. It damages the small airways in the lungs and can cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The name originated after a cluster of cases occurred among workers in a microwave popcorn factory in the early 2000s. The suspected culprit? Inhalation of diacetyl, a buttery-flavored chemical used in some food flavorings. 

🚬 How Did Vaping Get Blamed? 

In the early 2010s, a few studies found that some poorly regulated or homemade e-liquids — especially sweet or buttery dessert flavors — contained trace levels of diacetyl. That connection sparked headlines and viral misinformation claiming that vaping could lead to popcorn lung. 

But here's what those headlines left out: 

Many cigarette brands contain significantly more diacetyl than early vape liquids ever did — yet smoking has never been directly linked to popcorn lung. Combustible cigarettes contain approximately 336 micrograms of diacetyl per cigarette. 

Modern, legally compliant vape products — especially those that have gone through the FDA’s PMTA (Premarket Tobacco Application) process — do not contain diacetyl. 

There has never been a single verified case of popcorn lung caused by vaping. 

Let that sink in: Not one. 

🧪 Today’s Products Are Heavily Regulated 

Most major nicotine vape products sold in the U.S. today have been scrutinized under the FDA’s regulatory framework. These products do not contain diacetyl, and manufacturers are held to strict ingredient disclosure and safety testing requirements. That includes popular disposable vapes and nicotine salts — which are often falsely targeted by anti-vaping campaigns with outdated science. 

⚖️ So Why Does This Myth Persist? 

Because fear is powerful. Instead of acknowledging vaping’s potential as a harm reduction tool — a safer alternative to smoking, which still kills nearly half a million Americans each year — some public health campaigns focus on sensational, outdated narratives. 

And that’s harmful. Fear-based misinformation drives smokers away from proven alternatives and keeps them hooked on combustible tobacco — which we know, beyond any doubt, causes cancer, heart disease, and early death. 

✅ The Bottom Line 

Popcorn lung is not caused by vaping. 

Diacetyl isn’t present in modern vape products. 

There’s never been a single case of popcorn lung linked to nicotine vaping. 

Combustible cigarettes contain far more diacetyl than e-liquids ever did. 

It’s time to stop using myths and start focusing on facts. If public health is the real goal, then harm reduction must be part of the conversation.