Los Angeles Man Wins $25 Million for “Popcorn Lung” Diagnosis Linked to PAM

A Los Angeles man, Rolando Esparza, has been awarded $25 million after being diagnosed with a rare chronic lung disease often referred to as “popcorn lung.” This condition was linked to an ingredient found in the cooking spray PAM.

Recently, a jury in Los Angeles ruled in favor of the 58-year-old, stating that ConAgra—based in Chicago—did not adequately inform consumers about the risks associated with inhaling vapors from the buttery spray containing diacetyl. This chemical has been associated with respiratory health issues.

Even though ConAgra claimed the ingredient was discontinued in 2009, Esparza’s lawyer pointed out that his client had been using PAM regularly since the 1990s, believing it to be a healthier option. “He was really into health, body building, and martial arts,” attorney Jacob Plattenberger noted. “He ate lots of protein and eggs and cooked several times a day.” It seems he trusted this product to help him with his health-focused diet.

Esparza initially filed the lawsuit in 2022, arguing that the discontinued ingredient was responsible for his diagnosis of bronchiolitis obliterans, a progressive and irreversible respiratory disease. The condition gained its nickname from factory workers who fell ill after being exposed to butter-flavored chemicals in microwave popcorn production.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, treatment for this disease typically offers limited benefits. Most people find that their coughs improve or disappear over time once they no longer inhale these flavored vapors.

In a statement, ConAgra expressed dissatisfaction with the jury’s ruling. The company emphasized that its PAM Butter Flavor Cooking Spray has been diacetyl-free and safe for nearly two decades, indicating plans to appeal the verdict.

Esparza’s legal team shared that he hopes to be eligible for a lung transplant soon, although time is a critical factor as he is in need of both lungs. Plattenberger remarked, “We believe the decision was just. Our client is a decent person who has faced tough circumstances. While nothing can revert his health, a transplant could give him a few more years.” He also pointed out that although there have been prior successful lawsuits related to lung disease from microwave popcorn, this case marks a first against a cooking spray.