The FDA is taking another look at premium cigars in a move that anti-tobacco groups fear could weaken regulations. It's the latest push under Commissioner Scott Gottlieb to undertake a sweeping overall of tobacco and nicotine regulation. The FDA recently took the first step in lowering the amount of nicotine in cigarettes. It also said it's seeking information on the role flavors, including menthol, play in attracting people to tobacco products and alternatives like e-cigarettes.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Thursday decided to choose Option 1 of the two proposed regulations on tobacco products, option 2 would have granted an exemption for premium cigars. Today, the FDA banned sales of e-cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco and hookah tobacco to people under age 18, in line with cigarette rules, a move aimed at preventing a new generation from becoming addicted to nicotine. The agency said it also will require companies to submit these products to it for regulatory review, provide it with a list of product ingredients and place health warnings on their product packages and in advertisements.