Senate Democratic Leader Urges FDA to Crack Down on Flavored E-Cigarettes Harmful to Children

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer recently warned that e-cigarette manufacturers are targeting students with a new product that has fruity flavors and is easy to bring into classrooms, yet no measures have been taken to protect children.

Schumer stated that if the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not take action to ban this highly harmful new product, nicotine addiction will spread among children like "wildfire." This new product is said to have dessert-inspired flavors such as "Smurf Berry Sour," "Vanilla Cookie and Milk," "Golden Oreo," and "Strawberry Whipped Cream," enticing students to purchase and try them.

During a press conference, Schumer introduced Solomon, a 15-year-old ninth grader at Scarsdale Public High School. Solomon admitted to developing a severe nicotine addiction after using e-cigarettes produced by Juul, which has marketed "starter" e-cigarettes with flavors like "Fruit Medley" aimed at students, priced at $49.99.

Solomon started using e-cigarettes in eighth grade and has tried to quit multiple times without success. He mentioned that due to the device's small size, he and his friends would bring it to class: "Teachers have no idea because they (e-cigarettes) are so small, they look just like a USB drive."
Schumer stated that this type of e-cigarette has a nicotine content comparable to a traditional pack of cigarettes, and the rich food and drink flavors entice many teenagers to use e-cigarettes. Although the question of whether e-cigarettes are harmful remains unresolved, it is unethical for teenagers to consume large amounts of nicotine and become addicted!

Despite the many risks, the FDA decided last July not to implement established regulations restricting these devices. Schumer stated that the current Tobacco Control Act must include restrictions on e-cigarettes, making the sale of this unhealthy product disguised as a recreational item illegal.

Last month, a coalition of organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Cancer Society, sent a letter to FDA Director Robert Califf urging the FDA to take action. However, enforcement has been repeatedly delayed.

Schumer urged the FDA to swiftly ban this device harmful to children's health: "Kids in New York are facing a delicious trap. It is evolving into a real disaster."

      Recommended Reading: Are e-cigarettes harmful? What are the dangers of e-cigarettes?