The New York State legislature is considering a bill that would ban the sale of flavored nicotine packs because the flavors are considered attractive to minors. However, experts are divided over the ban, with some fearing it could lead to an illegal market and make it easier for teenagers to access such products.
The New York State legislature is considering a bill that would ban the sale of flavored nicotine packs in the state, based on the fact that fruit and candy-flavored products are considered a promotional tool for minors.
Congresswoman Linda Rosenthal expressed concern about the nicotine bag brand ZYN, which offers flavors such as mint, citrus, and coffee. She noted that as flavored e-cigarettes become harder to find in New York, minors may turn to nicotine packs.
Brian Erkkila, director of regulatory science at Swedish Match, said ZYN’s main customer group is not new nicotine users, but adults switching to safer products.
However, some experts believe a total ban on the product could backfire. Raymond Niaura, a professor at New York University, said the data showed that teen use of the product remained low, and he called the ban an “overreaction.” Cornell University professor Alan Mathios also said the ban on flavored nicotine packs could lead to the emergence of an illegal market, making it easier for teenagers to access such products.
On January 17, the US FDA approved marketing approval for 20 ZYN-branded nicotine bags. This marks an important step in the FDA’s efforts to regulate new tobacco products.
