E cigarette and food flavoring diacetyl alters airway cell morphology, inflammatory and antiviral response, and susceptibility to SARS CoV 2 Cell Death Discovery Diacetyl Vape Is Diacetyl in Vape Juice 2021 ? Research indicates that certain flavoring chemicals used in e cigarettes can irritate lung tissue and trigger inflammatory responses in laboratory settings. Some compounds, such as diacetyl, have been linked to respiratory damage when 1 in 3 teens who vape say they get e cigarettes online, including through social media apps. (PMC study) Parents: Monitor online activity, start the conversation, and stay informed. Learn more at