Jessica Tyson
23/06/2025 • 5 min read
Popcorn lung is one of the most talked-about (and misunderstood) health concerns linked to vaping. For years, headlines have warned that e-cigarette use could cause this severe lung condition. But what is popcorn lung, really? How is it caused, and are vapers truly at risk?
In this comprehensive guide, FREESMO breaks down the science behind popcorn lung, dispels common myths, and explains what vapers need to know in 2025.
The medical term for popcorn lung is bronchiolitis obliterans. It’s a rare but serious lung disease that damages the small airways in the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties. The condition is irreversible and can worsen over time if not properly managed.
The nickname “popcorn lung” comes from a high-profile case in the early 2000s, where workers at a microwave popcorn factory developed bronchiolitis obliterans after prolonged exposure to diacetyl, a chemical used to create buttery flavouring.
The primary culprit behind popcorn lung is diacetyl inhalation. Diacetyl is a naturally occurring compound found in some foods and beverages. While safe to eat, inhaling diacetyl at high levels can lead to airway scarring and inflammation.
Other potential causes include:
The symptoms of bronchiolitis obliterans can resemble those of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. Common signs include:
Because these symptoms overlap with other respiratory conditions, diagnosis requires lung function tests and imaging studies.
Does Vaping Cause Popcorn Lung?
This is where the confusion — and fearmongering — begins. While some early vape liquids contained diacetyl, the vast majority of e-liquids today, especially in regulated markets like the UK and EU, do not contain diacetyl.
In fact, the UK's Tobacco and Related Products Regulations (TRPR) explicitly ban diacetyl in e-liquids sold for vaping. Similarly, reputable brands like FREESMO ensure strict compliance with these safety standards.
To date, there are no confirmed cases of popcorn lung caused by vaping. Most health authorities, including Public Health England and Cancer Research UK, acknowledge that while vaping is not risk-free, the risk of popcorn lung from vaping is negligible to nonexistent in regulated markets.
The myth likely originated from a misunderstanding of diacetyl’s presence in some early e-liquids. Sensationalist headlines capitalised on this connection, despite significant differences in exposure levels between factory workers inhaling diacetyl vapours for years and occasional vape use.
Media outlets conflated isolated chemical findings with real-world health outcomes, creating widespread panic among consumers.
It’s crucial to differentiate between potential hazard and actual risk. Diacetyl’s ingestion in food poses no danger. Its inhalation at factory levels caused problems. Vaping, however, involves regulated, monitored products where diacetyl is largely absent.
Another factor adding to the confusion is EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Associated Lung Injury), a separate condition identified in the USA in 2019. EVALI was linked to black-market THC vape cartridges containing Vitamin E acetate, not standard nicotine e-liquids.
Despite media confusion, EVALI is unrelated to popcorn lung. However, its coverage reignited fears about vaping safety.
Multiple studies have evaluated the potential for vaping to cause bronchiolitis obliterans. The consensus is clear:
Source: https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2018/02/20/clearing-up-some-myths-around-e-cigarettes/
These conclusions are based on long-term monitoring of e-liquid ingredients, stringent manufacturing standards, and ongoing research.
At FREESMO, we prioritise transparency and safety. All our e-liquids comply with UK and EU regulations, ensuring they are free from banned substances like diacetyl.
Our product lines undergo rigorous testing, and we only source from reputable manufacturers who adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Whether it’s nic salts, freebase e-liquids, or disposables, every product is vetted for safety and quality.
FREESMO also provides educational resources to combat misinformation and help vapers make informed choices.
While the popcorn lung myth persists, it’s essential to focus on proven risks. Smoking exposes users to over 7,000 chemicals, including tar and carbon monoxide, leading to:
Vaping, in contrast, eliminates combustion and drastically reduces harmful chemical exposure. By switching from smoking to vaping, users significantly lower their risk of tobacco-related diseases.
Modern e-liquid manufacturers use alternative compounds to achieve rich, buttery, or creamy flavours without diacetyl. These substitutes are extensively tested for inhalation safety under current regulations.
At FREESMO, our flavour partners use diacetyl-free formulas, ensuring vapers enjoy complex, satisfying flavours without compromising on safety.
As a consumer, you can take steps to ensure your e-liquids are safe:
Responsible sourcing is key to a safe vaping experience.
Vaping is not risk-free. Common side effects include:
However, these are generally mild and temporary. Long-term studies continue, but current evidence supports vaping as a far safer alternative to smoking.
Harm reduction strategies aim to minimise the negative health impacts of risky behaviours without requiring complete abstinence. Vaping fits this model by providing a less harmful way for smokers to manage nicotine use.
Globally, countries like the UK and New Zealand have embraced vaping as a tool to reduce smoking rates. Popcorn lung myths only serve to undermine these efforts.
At FREESMO, we believe in empowering vapers with facts, not fear. Our educational content, including guides like this, helps debunk myths and support responsible vaping.
We also encourage customers to take our Smoke-Free Questionnaire, designed to match users with products tailored to their needs and preferences.
Popcorn lung remains one of the most persistent myths in the vaping world. While its origins in industrial settings are real, the leap to associating it with regulated vaping products is scientifically unfounded.
FREESMO stands by the evidence: vaping, when done responsibly with compliant products, does not pose a popcorn lung risk. Instead, it offers adult smokers a viable, less harmful alternative to combustible tobacco.
Stay informed. Choose trusted products. And enjoy a safer vaping experience with FREESMO.
If you're exploring alternatives as part of your smoke-free lifestyle, FREESMO offers a unique Smoke-Free Questionnaire. This simple tool helps match you with the most suitable vape coils and e-cigarette devices based on your preferences.
Understanding and maintaining your vape coils is essential for a smooth and enjoyable vaping journey. With the right care, proper e-liquid pairing, and expert guidance, your coils will deliver consistent performance with every puff. Whether you're chasing clouds or enjoying subtle MTL draws, FREESMO has everything you need — from reliable coils and powerful devices to friendly advice and fast UK delivery.
Visit FREESMO.co.uk today to browse our full collection and start your smoke-free journey with confidence.
