1. U.S. Online Retailers Sued Over Child-Friendly Nicotine Packaging
According to Kron4 News, San Francisco District Attorney David Chiu has sued four online tobacco retailers for breaking laws designed to protect children from harmful nicotine exposure. The companies—Rogue Holdings LLC, Swisher International Inc., Northern Scandinavia Inc., and Lucy Goods Inc.—are accused of using packaging that appeals to young people.
Chiu said, “We will not allow these companies to ignore the law and undermine years of work to reduce youth smoking. These products are not welcome here, and we will take action against any online retailers selling them in San Francisco.”
The lawsuit claims these companies changed the packaging of their nicotine pouches (often called “nic pouches” or “Zyns”) to make them more appealing to younger people. Chiu added that the nicotine in these pouches is twice as strong as cigarette smoke, is highly addictive, and comes in sweet flavors aimed at attracting youth.
2. BAT Delays Synthetic Nicotine E-Cigarette Launch in South Korea
British American Tobacco (BAT) has delayed the launch of its synthetic nicotine products in South Korea until the fourth quarter of this year, as reported by N.News. BAT plans to be the first major tobacco company to sell both natural and synthetic nicotine products in the market.
An official from BAT stated, “The entire plan is delayed.” BAT had already launched the “Vuse” natural nicotine liquid cigarette in Korea last year but faced competition from synthetic nicotine products, which are cheaper because they don’t have cigarette taxes.
Currently, South Korean law only regulates tobacco-based cigarettes, so synthetic nicotine cigarettes are not covered. This loophole allows them to be sold at a lower price and in areas where smoking is usually banned, like near schools.
3. France Recalls CAESAR PLUX9000 E-Cigarette Model
A safety alert from Rappel News announced a recall of the CAESAR 9000 e-cigarette model in France due to safety concerns. The recall affects all batches sold between February 1 and April 24, 2024, and was initiated by the distributor SHELBY SHOP. The product was found to lack necessary supplier information and safety warnings, posing a chemical risk that could harm consumers.
Consumers are advised to stop using the product immediately and return it for a refund. The recall will continue until November 30, 2024.
4. A New Kind of Vaping: Water-Based CBD Vape Device Hits the U.S. Market
As reported by PR Newswire, Synergy Life Science® has introduced Nebi®—a new water-based CBD vape device—to the Atlanta vaping market. Chris Gerlach, CEO of Synergy Life Science, said, “We are excited to bring Nebi® to Atlanta. Our goal is to offer high-quality, safe vape products that meet different customer needs.”
Health and Safety:
Traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes have been criticized for health issues because they use heat to turn ingredients into harmful smoke that can damage the lungs. Nebi® offers a safer alternative with its water-based technology, meeting the global demand for a healthier vaping option.
About Synergy Life Science:
Synergy Life Science is a leader in consumer healthcare, focused on creating innovative products using scientific research. Specializing in hemp-derived ingredients, the company has developed unique technologies to enhance safety, effectiveness, and absorption. They are committed to research and development to ensure that consumers get the best results from their products.
5. Philippine Customs Seize 4.8 Billion Pesos Worth of Smuggled E-Cigarettes
The Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized smuggled goods, including e-cigarettes and counterfeit items, during a raid at a warehouse in Manila, as reported by PNA News. The raid uncovered a large amount of smuggled e-cigarettes, fake brand goods, cosmetics, and general merchandise.
BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio stated, “This is the largest operation of the year for the customs bureau. We have been monitoring these warehouses for months for possible intellectual property violations.”
The customs bureau has temporarily locked and sealed the storage area, awaiting a final count of the goods. Warehouse owners and operators must provide documents proving their imported goods are legal within 15 days of receiving the notice, or they could face charges under several laws.