Strengthening Oversight to Protect Youth
In a continued effort to curb youth nicotine addiction, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued formal requests for information to four e-cigarette manufacturers. These requests aim to gather critical data on product design, marketing practices, and youth appeal—key factors contributing to the rise in underage e-cigarette use.
This move follows a similar request sent to JUUL Labs and is part of the FDA’s broader Youth Tobacco Prevention Plan, which focuses on reducing youth access to and interest in electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS).
Who Received the FDA Letters?
The FDA sent letters under section 904(b) of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act to:
- J Well (Paris, France) – Bo Starter Kit
- YGT Investment LLC & 7 Daze LLC (California) – Zoor Kit
- Liquid Filling Solutions LLC (Pennsylvania) – Myle Products
- SVR Inc. (Nevada) – SMPO Kit
These companies were selected due to product similarities with JUUL, including:
- High nicotine concentration via nicotine salts
- Compact, concealable designs
- User-friendly features that may appeal to youth
What the FDA Is Requesting
Manufacturers must submit:
- Marketing materials and strategies
- Research on product design and youth appeal
- Reports of youth-related adverse events
- Consumer complaints
Failure to comply by July 12, 2018 may result in regulatory or enforcement action.
Why This Matters
FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb emphasized the urgency:
“Too many kids continue to experiment with e-cigarette and vaping products, putting them at risk for developing a lifelong nicotine addiction.”
The FDA is committed to using its full regulatory authority to investigate whether design features and marketing tactics are contributing to youth uptake.
Broader Prevention Efforts
This action is part of a larger crackdown that includes:
- Retailer inspections and warning letters for underage sales
- Enforcement against e-liquids resembling candy or juice boxes
- Expansion of “The Real Cost” campaign to educate teens on vaping risks
- Consideration of new product standards, including flavor restrictions and child-resistant packaging