New Law Bans Flavored Cigarettes

Anyone selling cigarettes flavored with cloves, fruit – anything but menthol – is a criminal under a ban that marks the first assault in a new war on tobacco. The law, enacted this summer and kicking in today, directs the FDA to crack down on candy and fruit-flavored cigarettes that public health officials say turn children into life-long nicotine addicts.

"These flavored cigarettes are a gateway for many children and young adults to become regular smokers," FDA Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg told reporters.

The FDA has sent a letter to tobacco companies warning the agency will take action against those who continue to make, distribute or sell flavored cigarettes in violation of the law. Border agents have been instructed to block imports of flavored cigarettes.

Federal officials and tobacco control advocates could not say exactly how many people use these products. But Dr. Lawrence Deyton, head of the FDA's new Center for Tobacco Products, said they are favored by teens.

"Studies show that 17-year-old smokers are three times as likely to use flavored cigarettes as smokers over the age of 25," Deyton said.

"I also agree with the banning of flavored cigarettes."