Factory Worker Awarded $30.4 Million for Popcorn Lung

A jury in Cook County jury has awarded 45-year old Gerardo Solis $30.4 million as compensation for having developed a health condition known as popcorn lung'. It is the biggest award to-date in a 'popcorn lung' case.

Solis, a factory worker from South Elgin, alleged that his lung disease was caused by exposure to diacetyl, a chemical used to make butter-flavored microwave popcorn and other foods. The diacetyl was supplied by BASF Corporation of Michigan. He is currently awaiting a lung transplant.

BASF plans to appeal the verdict.