Response to WHO Criticism of E-cigarette by German Tobacco Association

Industry Insight by 2FIRSTS.ai
Dec.19.2023
Response to WHO Criticism of E-cigarette by German Tobacco Association
German Tobacco Industry and New Products Association (BVTE) responds to WHO's criticism of e-cigarettes, citing scientific evidence.

In a recent report by the German news website Nachrichten-heut, Jan Mücke, the Managing Director of the German Tobacco Industry and New Product Association (BVTE), responded to the World Health Organization's criticism of e-cigarettes. Mücke argued that the WHO's accusation that e-cigarettes are not an appropriate alternative to reduce tobacco consumption is a disregard for substantial scientific evidence and further exacerbates existing uncertainty among consumers.

 

The World Health Organization persists in erroneous health policy dogmas, disregarding the increasing amount of independent scientific evidence on e-cigarettes," explained Jan Mücke, General Manager of the German Tobacco Industry and New Products Association (BVTE), in Berlin.

 

In fact, when inhaling e-cigarettes, significantly fewer harmful substances are ingested compared to smoking.

 

He stated that the World Health Organization denies that e-cigarettes are a suitable alternative to tobacco consumption, emphasizing the health risks associated with vaping products, and accusing manufacturers of spreading false information about the benefits of e-cigarettes.

 

In Germany, using e-cigarettes has become the most popular method for quitting smoking, proving to be more effective than other methods such as medical nicotine replacement products. Institutions such as the German Cancer Research Center (dkfz) and the UK health authorities have confirmed that switching to e-cigarettes can significantly reduce harmful substances for consumers. The mention of the harm reduction potential of e-cigarettes summarizes the growing scientific consensus, dispelling misinformation from the tobacco industry.

 

In fact, the World Health Organization's exaggerated claims and misleading statements about the dangers of e-cigarettes are negligently contributing to the perpetuation of a misconception that the health risks associated with using e-cigarettes are greatly overestimated compared to smoking in Germany.

 

Muk said:

 

We need the World Health Organization to develop an evidence-based and scientifically grounded information policy, recognizing and supporting e-cigarettes as an opportunity to minimize risks for adult smokers.

 

At the same time, there is no evidence to suggest that e-cigarettes serve as a gateway to smoking. However, it is imperative to prohibit the consumption of nicotine-containing products by minors. The German Tobacco Industry and New Product Association (BVTE) is urging strict enforcement of existing bans on sales to minors and advocating for severe penalties for those who violate the restrictions.

 

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.

JUUL Patent Victory in Case 337: A Wake-Up Call—Universal Designs Are No Longer Safe, Manufacturers and Brands Urged to Self-Audit
JUUL Patent Victory in Case 337: A Wake-Up Call—Universal Designs Are No Longer Safe, Manufacturers and Brands Urged to Self-Audit
NJOY Found Guilty of Infringement, ALD Under Investigation, and JUUL Reclaims Market with "Pod Airflow Channel" Patent
Apr.28
5-Year-Old SMOK Vape Explosion Case: Plaintiffs Resist Federal Move, Demand State Court Jurisdiction
5-Year-Old SMOK Vape Explosion Case: Plaintiffs Resist Federal Move, Demand State Court Jurisdiction
Texas man sues multiple parties, including Shenzhen IVPS, over e-cigarette explosion injuries, denying malicious intent for avoiding federal court jurisdiction.
Apr.21 by 2FIRSTS.han
Poland to Ban Disposable E-Cigs and Flavored Nicotine Pouches
Poland to Ban Disposable E-Cigs and Flavored Nicotine Pouches
Poland's Ministry of Health plans to ban disposable e-cigarettes and flavored nicotine pouches, and prohibit e-cigarette sales to anyone under 18. The draft has been approved by the government's legislative group and backed unanimously by the parliamentary health committee.
May.08 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Philip Morris International invests in smoke-free electronic devices to reduce health risks.
Philip Morris International invests in smoke-free electronic devices to reduce health risks.
PMI invests in smoke-free electronic devices to reduce health risks caused by tobacco combustion, facing regulatory challenges and black market effects.
Jun.12 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Russia Bans Smoking on Residential Balconies with Maximum Fine of $19
Russia Bans Smoking on Residential Balconies with Maximum Fine of $19
The Russian Federation has explicitly included shared balconies in residential buildings in the smoking ban. Offenders will face fines ranging from 500 to 1,500 rubles ($6 to $19). The vice chairman of the State Duma Committee on Housing and Utilities emphasized that these balconies are public spaces, and residents who smoke there will be punished according to the law.
May.14 by 2FIRSTS.ai
PMI Sanctioned by DTI for Violating Philippine Regulations: IQOS ILUMA Limited Edition Advertising Halted
PMI Sanctioned by DTI for Violating Philippine Regulations: IQOS ILUMA Limited Edition Advertising Halted
On April 23, 2025, the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) formally charged PMFTC, the Philippine affiliate of Philip Morris International, with violating RA11900, the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act. The DTI ordered an immediate halt to all promotional activities related to the IQOS ILUMA x Steve Aoki limited edition product.
Apr.24 by 2FIRSTS.ai