Anti-tobacco advocates marked Take Down Tobacco Day (April 1) by highlighting their ongoing battle to block the sale of flavored e-cigarettes. Critics say the flavored vaping devices are targeted at teens. “That’s something used by tobacco companies to manipulate kids. That’s the only reason it’s on the marketplace. Adults who use tobacco aren’t seeking flavors,” said Dr. Brian Jenssen of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The industry denies that assertion.
Sales of flavored e-cigarettes have flourished, despite a crackdown launched in 2020 by the Food and Drug Administration. Manufacturers found a regulatory loophole, using synthetic nicotine — instead of the natural drug derived from tobacco — which avoids federal oversight. U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) sponsored legislation, which was passed as part of the recent omnibus spending package, that gives the FDA the authority to regulate all synthetic nicotine products. Pallone hopes a broader jurisdiction will result in fewer e-cigarette sales to kids.
For those looking to quit smoking, go to NJQuitline.org for more information.
