After failed attempts to depict graphic images on tobacco products and prove the risks of electronic cigarettes, FDA's next step could have a severe impact on the industry. FDA is now pushing to regulate online sales of tobacco products. The list of products continues to include e cigarettes even though they do not contain tobacco.
The FDA is currently accepting comments from the public on the government's regulation website. The initial deadline of December 8 was recently postponed to January 19, allowing e-cigs supporters more time to make their case. However, it remains to be seen if the FDA will consider the opinions of the public or follow Boston's footsteps. Health officials in Boston recently banned the use of electronic cigarettes in workplaces and ignored the opinions of a majority of the people. The FDA is also looking to regulate not just the sale and distribution of these devices but also the way they are promoted.
It is a known fact that the best quality e cigarettes are sold online and not in stores. If such a restriction were to be imposed, millions of vapers in the United States would be forced to use substandard products or revert to tobacco cigarettes. The restriction on online sales will not only affect the vendors and users but also e-cigarette related websites and online magazines.
The regulation on the marketing strategies adopted by e-cig sellers would also be compromised. Such a ban could put an end to a lot of small businesses that provide quality products. The e cigarette industry is going from strength to strength, and is currently worth around $200 million. Despite the proven health benefits, e-cigarettes are still not getting the stamp of approval from health organisations. E cigarette users are expressing their concerns and opinions on the regulation website to generate more support. They also hope to win the support of large international vendors.
