The advance notice calls for information across a number of areas, including the role of flavors other than tobacco in tobacco products; flavors and initiation and patterns of tobacco product use, particularly among youths and young adults; and flavors and cessation, dual-use, and relapse among current and former tobacco product users.
It also is seeking comment on whether standards should be set on tobacco flavoring, including whether there should a prohibition or restriction on flavors and to which types of products these standards should apply. The notice specifically asks about menthol and its role in cigarette initiation and whether limitations on menthol could lead to use of other tobacco products.
“Because almost 90% of adult smokers started smoking by the age of 18, it’s imperative we look at new ways we can ensure that kids don’t progress from experimentation to regular use,” Commissioner Gottlieb said.
The American Heart Association called the action “long overdue.”