HEADLINE

From July 9 to 18, brands including ELFBAR, GEEKVAPE, and FUMOT submitted over 200 e-cigarette SKUs for public listing with the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), featuring high-puff devices, refillable pods, and multi-flavor compatible cartridges.

2Firsts interviewed Elizabeth Clarke, scientific lead at Imperial Brands, on the latest blu behavioral studies. Results showed that smokers with no intention to quit reduced cigarette use by nearly 29% in one week, and about one-third to 40% had significantly reduced or quit at six months. Clarke highlighted the role of flavor diversity and behavioral science, urging science-based harm reduction policies to demonstrate blu’s public health potential.

Launched in 2024, BAT’s Omni platform aims to advance tobacco harm reduction, dispel misconceptions about nicotine, and accelerate the transition to a smokeless future through science. In this 2Firsts exclusive interview, BAT’s head of strategic and digital communications shares insights on Omni’s vision and global impact.

Retraction Statement.

The ITGA Africa meeting highlighted sustainability, labor reforms, and challenges posed by novel nicotine products. Countries like Malawi stressed crop diversification and climate-resilient farming to help farmers adapt to global market shifts and secure their livelihoods.