The only proven health risk of diacetyl is its inhalation over time. If you simply MUST have your butter flavoured microwave popcorn, then be sure to avoid inhaling the fumes, especially when it is fresh and steaming. Make freshly popped popcorn and add your own butter instead to completely avoid the risk. There is very little evidence that eating diacetyl is a health concern. Further research is required to be sure. The simplest way to avoid diacetyl exposure is to avoid processed foods that contain artificial butter flavouring, and fermented alcoholic beverages like beer and wine that have not been fully fermented to remove excess diacetyl.
