New research by scientists at the University of Minnesota found that diacetyl, an ingredient in popcorn responsible for its buttery flavor, intensifies the damaging effects of an abnormal brain protein linked to Alzheimer´s.
Tests showed that diacetyl increases the level of beta-amyloid clumping which is a significant indicator of the diesase. The substance is also used in other products, such as pet foods, snack foods, margarines and candy.
"In light of the chronic exposure of industry workers to diacetyl, this study raises the troubling possibility of long-term neurological toxicity mediated by diacetyl," Robert Vince of the Center for Drug Design says.
