Instagram Vendors Skirt FDA Rules on Synthetic Nicotine Vapes

Instagram Vendors Skirt FDA Rules on Synthetic Nicotine Vapes

The growing popularity of synthetic nicotine vapes is concerning, especially with their enticing ‘tobacco-free’ labels. Young people might think these products are safe, but misleading ads can endanger their health and wellbeing.

In a revealing new study, researchers have highlighted a worrying trend among vendors advertising synthetic nicotine vapes on social media platforms like Instagram, showing a widespread neglect of FDA regulations. According to the study, a mere 13% of Instagram adverts for these products comply with the mandated health warnings, which are meant to occupy 20% of the ad space and be prominently displayed. This non-compliance raises concerns given synthetic nicotine’s appeal under the ‘tobacco-free’ label, which may mislead young users into believing these products are safer.

Professor Traci Hong from Boston University, a co-author of the study, explained that synthetic nicotine managed to bypass FDA regulation until April 2022, when new rules were implemented to curb this oversight. These vapes often come in enticing flavours like cotton candy and bubblegum, previously banned in traditional tobacco products, thus heightening their allure to youth. Despite synthetic nicotine being chemically similar to tobacco-derived nicotine, knowledge about its health effects remains limited. However, its addictive properties are presumed to be comparable, posing significant risks to young people whose brain development and psychosocial health could be adversely affected.

The study underscores the urgent need for tighter enforcement of advertising regulations to protect vulnerable demographics from the potentially harmful effects of synthetic nicotine products.

Source: US News

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