The Korean Association for Consumer Sovereignty has once again called on tobacco companies to immediately halt their exaggerated and false advertising of nicotine-free e-cigarettes. They also urged the Korean Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to swiftly implement appropriate regulatory measures, according to a report by Dtoday on December 3.
A recent investigative report by KBS News on June 21 revealed that nicotine-free e-cigarettes being sold in the market were found to contain a substance called "methyl nicotine," which mimics the effects of nicotine.
There is a regulatory gap when it comes to non-nicotine and nicotine-like products. As a result, sellers have been promoting "synthetic or nicotine-like e-cigarettes" as "nicotine-free e-cigarettes" for distribution and sale. Nicotine-free products are often marketed as a smoking cessation aid, but they also serve as a gateway for youth smoking.
The Korean Association for Consumer Sovereignty expressed concern that these products could negatively impact public health, particularly among the youth, and increase smoking rates. They strongly urged the Korean FDA to immediately stop false advertising and mislabeling by sellers of nicotine-free e-cigarettes.
Currently, South Korea has the highest tax rate on e-cigarettes in the world. According to a report by the Korea Institute of Public Finance, the tax rate on e-cigarette liquids is approximately 1,799 KRW per milliliter, which is about 3.6 times higher than the state of Connecticut in the U.S. (492 KRW per milliliter). The high tax has forced tobacco vendors to seek alternative tax-free options. In response, some businesses have started selling liquid e-cigarettes as either non-flavored liquids or diluted nicotine products.
In 2016, the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety started including nicotine-free products in safety management after the "humidifier disinfectant incident." However, in 2023, when some manufacturers inquired about regulations for nicotine-free products, the ministry stated that a comprehensive assessment of the ingredients, content, and effectiveness was required.
Subsequently, the sales of nicotine-free e-cigarettes surged. The KBS investigation found that all six products tested from three different companies contained "methyl nicotine," an ingredient not disclosed on the labels.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare pointed out that synthetic nicotine is not yet included under tobacco regulation, and discussions on nicotine-like substances are premature. However, the ministry suggested that if necessary, the Korean FDA could carry out a hazard assessment.
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.
