In Case You Haven't Heard…

Abstract

An industry trade show was the stage used to promote unauthorized e-cigarette products, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cracked down by sending warning letters to the manufacturers and retailers. “Regulated industry should be aware that CTP [Center for Tobacco Products] obtains leads that inform investigations from many sources, including trade shows,” said John Verbeten, director of CTP's Office of Compliance and Enforcement. “We remain committed to identifying and taking action against those breaking the law, including at these events.” The FDA CTP staff attended the trade show. They noted that regulated entities must comply with all applicable requirements under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Under these requirements, the sale and distribution of unauthorized tobacco products is illegal, including at industry events such as trade shows or expositions. The FDA also announced the issuance of warning letters to five online retailers for selling unauthorized e-cigarette products popular with youth. The FDA is engaging in ongoing efforts to prevent retailers and others from supplying unauthorized e-cigarettes. The FDA has issued more than 690 warning letters and more than 140 civil money penalty actions. The FDA has authorized 34 e-cigarette products and devices, and these are the only ones that can be lawfully marketed in the United States. For that list, go to https://digitalmedia.hhs.gov/tobacco/print_materials/CTP-250?locale=en.