According to an announcement on the official website of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on April 23, the FDA has issued civil fines (CMPs) to 20 brick-and-mortar retailers and 2 online retailers for selling unauthorized e-cigarettes, including the popular brand "ELFBAR" among young people.
The FDA has previously issued warnings to these retailers, stating that their sale of unauthorized tobacco products is in violation of regulations. However, subsequent inspections have revealed that these retailers have failed to correct these violations. Therefore, the FDA is now seeking to fine each retailer $20,000.
According to the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey, ELFBAR is the most commonly used brand among middle and high school students. 56.7% of youth e-cigarette users in the past 30 days reported using ELFBAR, with approximately one-third (31.1%) stating it is their "regular" brand.
The FDA is currently seeking civil penalties of approximately $20,000 from each retailer, consistent with civil penalties sought in recent months for selling unauthorized ELFBAR products, including in September, November, December, and February. These retailers have the option to pay the fine, reach a settlement agreement, apply for an extension of the response period, or request a hearing. If the retailers take no action within 30 days of receiving the complaint, they may default and be required to pay the full amount of the penalty.
The FDA's unauthorized civil fine action against e-cigarettes will continue to take comprehensive actions against the supply chain, particularly targeting products popular among young people for removal. As of April 2024, the FDA has issued over 550 warning letters and 108 civil fines to retailers (including brick-and-mortar and online retailers) selling unauthorized tobacco products.
In addition to actions targeting retailers, the FDA has also issued warning letters to over 670 manufacturers, importers, and distributors of e-cigarettes for illegally selling and/or distributing unauthorized new tobacco products. The agency has also initiated civil monetary complaints against 55 e-cigarette companies for illegally manufacturing unauthorized products, and has filed injunctions with the Department of Justice against 7 unauthorized e-cigarette product manufacturers.
The FDA has authorized 23 tobacco-flavored e-cigarette products and devices, which are currently the only e-cigarette products legally available for sale in the United States. Further information about which tobacco products can be legally marketed in the US can be found in the FDA's new searchable tobacco product database.
Notice
1. This article is provided exclusively for professional research purposes related to industry, technology and policy. Any reference to brands or products is made solely for the purpose of objective description and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or promotion of any brand or product.
2. The use of nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products, is associated with significant health risks. Users are required to comply with all relevant laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.
3. This article is strictly restricted from being accessed or viewed by individuals under the legal age.
Copyright
This article is either an original work by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with the original source clearly indicated. The copyright and usage rights of this article belong to 2Firsts or the original source. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other unauthorized use of this article by any entity or individual is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally responsible. For copyright-related matters, please contact: info@2firsts.com
AI Assistance Disclaimer
This article may have utilized AI to enhance translation and editing efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, errors may occur. Readers are advised to refer to the sources provided for more accurate information.
This article should not be used as a basis for any investment decisions or advice, and 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any errors in the content.
