Air2 Vapor Industry News

Stocking offices with nicotine products to increase worker productivity.

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:14:55 GMT

Palantir, Hello Patient and other tech companies are stocking offices with nicotine products to increase worker productivity.

Yes, you read this correctly, Nicotine Vending Machines, now a workplace perk.

Tech companies like Palantir and Hello Patient are stocking office vending machines with nicotine products to increase productivity among employees—and it seems to be working.

Nicotine startups Lucy and Sesh have installed branded vending machines in Palantir’s Washington, D.C., office, full of nicotine pouches that are leaving employees zipped up and ready to work.

A report in Fortune highlights a growing trend among some technology companies that are placing nicotine pouches in office vending machines as a workplace perk, with the aim of boosting employee focus and productivity. At the Washington, D.C., office of Palantir Technologies, vending machines stocked with nicotine pouches from startups Lucy Nicotine and Sesh Products have been installed for employees and guests over the age of 21. According to reports cited by The Wall Street Journal, the products are provided free of charge and paid for by the company.

The practice is also appearing at smaller tech firms. Hello Patient, an AI-powered healthcare startup based in Austin, experimented with a nicotine-pouch fridge in its office after its founder noticed engineers using the products during work.

Long a safer (and legal) alternative to the drugs that Wall Street bankers of old would use to follow market updates, tobacco products have started to make a comeback in the workplace, especially in the form of nicotine products as companies like Zyn and On! offer a less invasive way to get that nicotine high without clouding up office air.

Now, as companies stock their fridges with these pouches—usually the size of a piece of gum that remains tucked between one’s gums and cheek—they’re seeing an increased byproduct of the new office treat: If you can’t get them hooked on the work, get them hooked on the office perks.

The pouches are available for free in Palantir’s offices for employees and guests over the age of 21, a Palantir spokesperson told the Wall Street Journal. Palantir, which did not respond to requests for comment, pays to stock the products.

Eliano A. Younes, Palantir’s head of strategic engagement, posted a photo on X of a Lucy-branded vending machine filled with nicotine products, with the caption: “Palantir DC Office @LucyNicotine ��‍�� .”

Sesh, in particular, has a special tie to Palantir: it received $40 million in funding from Palantir cofounder Joe Lonsdale’s 8VC firm, and the cofounder even helped the company scale up, with Lonsdale previously telling Fortune he was drawn to Sesh because it was a smoke-free alternative to other products. “People don’t want to vape anymore,” he told Fortune.

Nicotine pouch brands LUCY, SESH and ALP lead the vending race:

While Lucy and Sesh address the Tech Office markets, ALP has teamed with VapeTM to launch specialized vending machines designed exclusively for ALP nicotine pouches , featuring proprietary "1-inch lift" technology to prevent the slim tins from jamming, a common issue in standard dispensers. These machines, which include integrated age verification and 32-inch screens, are targeting high-traffic venues for a "jam-free" experience.

Of Interests:

As of late 2024–2025, approximately 1.6 million U.S. middle and high school students currently use e-cigarettes , according to data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey . While overall usage has declined from peak levels, about 5.9% of youth report current vaping, with daily use among teens rising to 28.8% by 2024, indicating high addiction rates.

In 2025, the use of nicotine pouches among U.S. high school seniors rose to 4.4%, up from 1.4% in 2023, according to the 2025 Monitoring the Future survey. While vaping rates have slightly declined (15.7% for seniors in 2025), many teens are switching to or combining pouches with vapes, with pouches becoming the second most used tobacco product.

At Air2, we believe there is a better way to achieve true, methodical nicotine reduction and reduce greatly the risks associated with smoking cigarettes and vaping harmful chemicals. VaporEFX - www.Air2vapor.com

VIEW ORIGINAL, UN-EDITED ARTICLES HERE

- Yahoo News
- TobaccoReporter

- The Print

New U.S Wide, Liquor Store, Tax Hike on NA-Beer and 40-Proof Alcohol

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:08:16 GMT

New U.S. Wide Liquor Store Tax Hike on NA-Beer and 40-Proof Alcohol.

Sound Ridiculous? We thought so too... but, we did get your attention.

Yes, that's precisely how ridiculous these new state-by-state tax hikes on flavored smokeless tobacco products are. Think about it; if the Fed's and state lawmakers wanted to push the agenda for reducing underage and teen alcohol consumption, why not follow suit with with these absurd tax hikes on smokeless tobacco products and raise the liquor tax on all flavored alcohol products. Teens and other underage consumers of alcohol would no longer have less expensive access to flavored vodka, honey flavored bourbon and flavored schnapps, for starters. And what about all the flavored 6% alcohol seltzers and 4% fruit enhanced beers, which teens and underage consumers have turned to in droves?

In fact, state lawmakers and our federal government should not only cease and desist with these derisory tax penalties on consumers and retailers, and instead they should be providing consumers seeking to stop smoking cigarettes and the inhaling of lipid ridden Vapes with coupons and other incentives to quit smoking and make the switch to much less harmful, smokeless tobacco products, such as nicotine pouches and aerosol sprays.

Taxing alternative nicotine products is a health policy buzzkill for all Americans:

Cigarettes have historically dominated the United States nicotine market, but much has changed over the last decade. With the introduction of vapes and oral pouches as alternatives to cigarettes, smoking rates have plummeted.

This is great news. But sadly, not all lawmakers are seizing this opportunity to use their tax codes to encourage these dramatically safer alternatives — and both revenue and public health are suffering for it. As states grapple with how to tax the transforming tobacco and nicotine market, policymakers should carefully consider the tax mix they implement.

This debate is unfolding right now in New York. Just last month, Gov. Kathy Hochul’sbudget called for broadening the Empire State’s pre-existing 75% wholesale tax on tobacco products to include all alternative nicotine products, adding a $0.55/unit tax on vapor atop the current 20% retail tax. She’s even aptly nicknamed this proposal the “ZYN tax.”

Why New York's 'ZYN tax' is misguided:

Despite the fact that products like ZYN don’t even contain tobacco, from a purely economic standpoint, this approach is misguided. From a public health point of view, it’s potentially destructive.

Data shows that products that allow users to consume nicotine via methods other than combustible cigarettes cause substantially less harm — to themselves and to their neighbors. Lawmakers should want to see consumers move toward safer products. Treating all nicotine products as cigarettes for tax reasons, while telling consumers they carry identical dangers, puts that aim at risk.

To be fair, Hochul’s proposal is not unique. Exuberant tax rates on alternative tobacco products are pervasive across the United States. Multiple states, including New Mexico and Nebraska, are also actively considering similar tax hikes. But the lessons from states that have placed insanely high tax rates and implemented bans on certain alternatives — including New York — should be proof that more taxes aren’t the answer. In fact, they’re part of the problem.

When states make it harder for taxpayers to switch to tobacco alternatives, illicit markets thrive. Some projections estimate that in states with bans on alternative products (like flavored vapes), illegal contraband — which does not comply with any health regulations and raises no revenue for states — now comprises an estimated 86% of the state’s nicotine consumption.

The problem:
This is a costly mistake. Revenue that would have otherwise come in through taxes on alternative products is now in the hands of smugglers. It also poses severe health ramifications. A tax increase on vaping from 35% to 95% in Minnesota, for example, was estimated to have prevented 32,400 people from switching from cigarettes to other products. If applied nationwide, this would prevent more than 1.8 million people from quitting over a 10-year period.

Design policy that prioritizes harm reduction:

If Hochul’s aim with the ZYN tax is only to address “public health concerns,” her solution should be a policy design that prioritizes harm reduction and incentivizes New Yorkers to switch to safer nicotine products. An appropriate tax structure for alternative nicotine products could look like a specific tax per milliliter for vaping products and by weight for heated tobacco and modern oral products.

Tax Foundation has modeled how this could work, even providing a structure that would reduce rates between 50% and 100% based on how much less harmful these products are and whether cigarette smokers are willing to switch.

The nicotine market in the United States has transformed, and it’s time for policymakers to recognize that switching to alternative products from combustible cigarettes, while not perfect, is a public health achievement. Instead of New York’s proposal to penalize alternative nicotine products, a modernized approach that employs tax structures aligned with relative harm would yield substantial benefits.

Of Interests:

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UN-EDITED ARTICLE HERE

by : Adam Hoffer Special to the USA TODAY Network

BAT rolls out VELO nicotine pouches in Argentina.

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:19:32 GMT

BAT rolls out VELO nicotine pouches in Argentina as social media buzzes about ZYN distribution.

VELO nicotine pouches have recently launched in Argentina, introduced by British American Tobacco (BAT) as yet another tobacco-free, smoke-free alternative, (Pouch) joining competitors like ZYN in the growing market, with local availability in flavors like Mint, Grape, and Watermelon in different strengths, though some Argentine health authorities have issued warnings about their addictive potential and lack of specific regulation.

BAT Argentina says it has launched VELO nicotine pouches in Argentina, positioning the product as an adult alternative that contains no tobacco and involves no combustion. At the same time, social media discussion and media reporting indicate that Philip Morris International’s ZYN nicotine pouches are also being distributed through Argentine channels.

Key Takeaways:

• BAT Argentina is offering VELO nicotine pouches in Argentina.

• A cited comparison says Sweden’s daily smoking rate is 5.3% and describes a 54% decline over a little more than a decade.

• BAT Argentina’s, Jorge Arguindegui says VELO contains no tobacco and involves no combustion or smoke inhalation.

• PMI’s ZYN nicotine pouches were reportedly widely stocked at kiosks.

• Argentina currently has no law specifically targeting nicotine pouches

BAT Argentina’s Jorge Arguindegui said the company is working to provide adult consumers with lower-risk alternatives to traditional cigarettes and said it recently launched VELO nicotine pouches. He said the product contains no tobacco and that its use does not involve combustion or inhaling smoke.

The report says that amid a global trend of moving away from tobacco sales and Argentina’s ban on vaping products, BAT is shifting its business model toward nicotine pouch sales.

The text says the development coincides with the publication of a report comparing smoking trends in Sweden and Argentina, stating that in Sweden, the adoption of nicotine pouches led to a sharp reduction in smokers.

The cited report states: “Sweden today has the lowest rate of daily smokers in the European Union: just 5.3%, a level close to the international standard that defines a smoke-free society. This historic decline — a 54% reduction in a little more than a decade — was driven by the wide availability of non-combustion alternatives, such as snus, nicotine pouches and e-cigarette products, which allow people to abandon cigarettes and avoid the toxic effects of combustion.”

November 2025, social media discussions (such as on Reddit) mentioned that PMI’s ZYN had arrived in Argentina, and that in December 2025, media reports said the product had begun to be widely stocked at kiosks.

Of Interests:

In 2023, the Argentine government banned the import and sale of heated tobacco products such as PMI’s IQOS, and says there is currently no nicotine-pouch-specific law in Argentina.

At Air2, we believe there is a better way to achieve TRUE nicotine reduction and reduce greatly the risks associated with Vaping harmful chemicals. VaporEFX - www.Air2vapor.com

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UN-EDITED ARTICLE HERE .

China Deploys Crackdown on Illicit Tobacco products. Today illegal Vapes; tomorrow, Fentanyl.

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 16:54:52 GMT

Breaking News | China Deploys Full-Chain Crackdown on Illicit Tobacco; Enforcement Storm Looms for Illegal Tobacco and E-Cigarettes.

Are we giving China enough credit here? Think about it; China infiltrates approximately 592,000 illicit Vapes into the U.S. daily. The recent notice of enforcement within China, includes Manufacturers, Wholesalers, Distributors and Retailers. If China would adopt a similar crackdown on the illicit supply of f Fentanyl precursor chemicals illegally imported and smuggled into our Country, Mexico would be out of business, or at least smuggling Fentanyl into the U.S. would be dramatically hindered.

Like Fentanyl, it is difficult to determine the exact number of illicit vapes brought into the US annually from China because they are unauthorized and often smuggled , meaning official import records are incomplete. However, data discrepancies between US and Chinese customs, along with market estimates, provide a clearer picture than seizure data alone.

Estimated Quantity and Value

Estimated Annual Units: An estimated 216 million illicit vapes from China infiltrated the U.S. in 2024, based on market sales data. This equates to approximately 591,780 units entering the country daily.
Estimated Market Value: The retail value of these illicit products is estimated to be over $2 billion annually . Chinese export data suggests the manufacturer value of all vapes (illicit and legal) shipped to the U.S. was $3.7 billion in 2024.

There is a significant gap between what China reports exporting and what the U.S. officially records as receiving:

U.S. Import Records: The U.S. Census Bureau recorded the declared value of e-cigarette imports from China as only about $333 million in 2024.
Chinese Export Records: Chinese customs data, for the same year, indicated that $3.6 billion worth of vapes were exported to the U.S..

This massive difference highlights the scale of products entering the U.S. through unofficial or mislabeled channels to evade import reviews and duties.

China Enforcement Article Summary:

● China’s State Council General Office on December 18 issued a high-level enforcement directive, calling for a full-chain crackdown on illicit tobacco-related activities across production, logistics, distribution, retail and cross-border trade.

● E-cigarettes and nicotine pouches are explicitly brought under enforcement, with the document banning the unlicensed production and sale of nicotine-containing oral products.

● Illegal e-cigarette “export reflow” is singled out as a key target, reinforcing enforcement following China’s 2022 move to place e-cigarettes under the tobacco monopoly system and restrict domestic sales at the product standard level.

● The directive strengthens coordination between administrative enforcement and criminal justice authorities, and calls for cross-agency action involving customs, public security and market regulators.

● Tobacco remains a major source of fiscal revenue, with the industry generating about 1.54 trillion yuan in 2024, roughly 7% of China’s general public budget revenue.

According to a report released by Xinhua News Agency on December 18 , the document — titled Opinion on Cracking Down on Tobacco-Related Illegal Activities Across the Entire Chain — addresses long-standing issues including counterfeit production, illegal sales and smuggling. It calls for strengthened law enforcement across the entire supply chain, from manufacturing and warehousing to logistics, distribution, retail and cross-border trade, with the stated aim of purifying the tobacco market and safeguarding state interests and consumer rights.

State Council General Office Elevates Enforcement Deployment

The opinion was issued by the State Council General Office, a higher administrative level than most previous tobacco-related enforcement notices, which have more commonly been released by the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration or local authorities.

The document calls on local governments and relevant departments to fully assume their enforcement responsibilities, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and ensure that enforcement measures are implemented across all stages of the supply chain. It also calls for improving the vertical management of the tobacco regulatory system and strengthening mechanisms for entrusted enforcement between departments.

At Air2, we believe there is a better way to achieve TRUE nicotine reduction and reduce greatly the risks associated with Vaping harmful chemicals. VaporEFX - www.Air2vapor.com

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UN-EDITED ARTICLE HERE.

Nicotine Pouches Hit 55.7% of Oral Tobacco: Altria loses more ground.

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 17:14:46 GMT

Is Altria ON!, or OFF? While on! held an 8.7% share of the total U.S. oral tobacco category, its position within the nicotine pouch segment slipped to 15.6%, down 4.1 points amid highly elevated competitor promotional activity.

Article Summary:

Altria Group, Inc. (MO) is facing a pivotal moment as nicotine pouches surge to 55.7% of the U.S. oral tobacco market in the third quarter of 2025, an 11.1-point year-over-year expansion that is reshaping category dynamics. The company’s challenge is clear: keeping pace with the fast-growing oral segment.
While on! held an 8.7% share of the total U.S. oral tobacco category, its position within the nicotine pouch segment slipped to 15.6%, down 4.1 points amid highly elevated competitor promotional activity.

During the third quarter, competitor promotions drove the nicotine pouch category’s average retail prices down 7% nationally, with declines of more than 70% in a major retail chain. Altria noted that on!’s retail price increased approximately 1.5% over the same period, reflecting a different pricing trend than the broader category.

Despite these conditions, the company highlighted that retail takeaway for on! remained “steady,” indicating consistent consumer demand during a highly promotional environment.

Which of the two Tobacco Leaders will dominate the Next Generation Products ("NGP") landscape, by delivering a truly smoke-free alternative to Vaping and Heat Not Burn products?

Although Altria and Philip Morris lead the race, with British American Tobacco on their heels, which of the leading seven global tobacco companies will provide consumers with a true, differentiating alternative and a new product delivery device and system to the compete with the ever popular Nicotine Pouch , amidst all the hype and the mad-dash of 120+ competitors in the Nicotine Pouch space, racing to the bottom as the leaders continue to dominate and control market share??

To strengthen its position in the evolving segment, Altria is rolling out on! PLUS , its next-generation pouch designed to enhance comfort, nicotine delivery and flavor satisfaction. The product launched in Florida, Texas and North Carolina, and early research showed higher purchase intent versus several competing brands.

As nicotine pouches continue to expand within the oral tobacco market, on!’s performance and the rollout of on! PLUS will determine how Altria positions itself within this rapidly growing category. The company’s efforts in pricing, product innovation and distribution will shape its trajectory as the segment evolves.

Where does Philip Morris and and Turning Point Brands Stand Next to Altria?

Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) showed strong momentum in its modern oral portfolio in the third quarter of 2025, with global pouch shipments rising 16.9% and U.S. ZYN offtake growing 39%, according to Nielsen estimates. Including select short-term re-launch promotions following earlier supply constraints, ZYN was fully available to the trade and supported by a wide range of commercial activities, Philip Morris noted. Philip Morris also emphasized continued investments in capacity and commercialization to meet rising demand in the nicotine pouch segment.

Turning Point Brands, Inc. (TPB) delivered exceptionally strong modern oral growth in the third quarter of 2025, with segment net sales surging 627.6% year over year to $36.7 million. Now it represents nearly 30.8% of the company's revenues. Turning Point Brands highlighted sequential modern oral growth of 22% and raised its full-year modern oral sales outlook to $125-$130 million. Management also noted progress toward qualifying its first U.S. white-pouch production lines in 2026, underscoring Turning Point Brands’ growing presence in the nicotine pouch category.

We still believe that there is a better way altogether for nicotine users to achieve their level of satisfaction without the potential risks and known health related issues from smoking; www.Air2vapor.com

At Air2, we believe there is a better way to achieve TRUE nicotine reduction and reduce greatly the risks associated with Vaping harmful chemicals. VaporEFX

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UN-EDITED ARTICLE HERE.

The Ultimate Face-Off in a Changing Tobacco Landscape...WHO WILL WIN?

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:05:42 GMT

The tobacco industry is evolving amid declining cigarette consumption, tighter regulations and growing demand for cleaner nicotine delivery systems.

Article Summary:

Altria Group, Inc. (MO) and Philip Morris International Inc. (PM) are two titans of the global tobacco industry, each charting a distinct path within a rapidly transforming market.
Philip Morris, operating predominantly outside the United States, has taken a leading role in the international shift toward reduced-risk products, spearheaded by its IQOS heated tobacco system and ZYN nicotine pouches.
The tobacco industry itself is evolving amid declining cigarette consumption, tighter regulations and growing demand for cleaner nicotine delivery systems. Both companies are leveraging innovation and strategic investments to secure relevance in a smoke-free future.

The Case For Each Company:
Altria’s strong pricing power continues to be a cornerstone of its financial resilience, helping offset ongoing declines in cigarette volumes.
Philip Morris’ growth remains anchored in the smoke-free transformation, which continues to reshape its earnings base. In the third quarter of 2025, smoke-free products contributed 41% of total net revenues and 42% of gross profit.

As the November and December Holiday's approach, both Altria and Philip Morris remain dominant players in a rapidly evolving tobacco landscape, but their investment appeal differs. Which of the two Tobacco Leaders will dominate the Next Generation Products ("NGP") landscape, by delivering a truly smoke-free alternative to Vaping and Heat Not Burn products? Although Altria and Philip Morris lead the race, with British American Tobacco on their heels, which of the leading seven global tobacco companies will provide consumers with a true, differentiating alternative and a new product delivery device and system to the compete with the ever popular Nicotine Pouch , amidst all the hype and the mad-dash of 120+ competitors in the Nicotine Pouch space, racing to the bottom as the leaders continue to dominate and control market share??

The Bottom Line:
Philip Morris offers stronger global growth and leadership in reduced-risk products, while Altria delivers compelling value through higher yield and steady earnings. With its attractive valuation, robust pricing power and growing smoke-free momentum, Altria stands out as the better bet for income-focused investors seeking stability and consistent returns in 2025, even as the industry continues its transition toward a smoke-free future. So, who will WIN and who will truly lead the alternative, NGP race? "The NEXT Big Thing? Hmm, well, we have a pretty good idea."

Yes, we too believe that there is a better way altogether for nicotine users to achieve their level of satisfaction without the potential risks and known health related issues from smoking ... how about NO HARMFUL INGREDIENTS INHALED INTO A NICOTINE USERS LUNGS. Period. "ZERO." www.Air2vapor.com

At Air2, we believe there is a better way to achieve TRUE nicotine reduction and reduce greatly the risks associated with Vaping harmful chemicals. VaporEFX

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UN-EDITED ARTICLE HERE.

"Take me out to the Ballpark... or not."

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 16:52:48 GMT

In 2025, 17 U.S. Ballpark's have committed to TOBACCO FREE stadiums. Proposal looks to ban chewing tobacco, ZYN at pro stadiums.

Article Summary:

In 2025, 17 U.S. Ballpark's have committed to TOBACCO FREE stadiums.
It's part of a national effort driven by Knock Tobacco Out of the Park to sever the long-standing link between baseball and chewing tobacco.
Student athletes and other kids imitate their pro baseball role models, the campaign's leaders say.
The ban includes use by fans, players and team personnel.
Cigarettes and Vapes are already prohibited.
Those who refuse to obey are guilty of a misdemeanor punishable on first offense with a fine up to $100.

For clarification: Please keep in mind that these articles, related to banning Tobacco and ZYN, and even mentioning the two products in the same sentence, is inaccurate, at best. ZYN does not use Tobacco in their products and there is a MASSIVE difference between chewing tobacco and a synthetic nicotine pouch . Furthermore, ZYN should take the mentioning of ZYN as being banned at 17 ballparks as complimentary, given the fact that Philip Morris owns a significantly large portion of the global nicotine pouch business, expected to exceed $25 Billion by 2030 . We wonder why there is no mention of VELO, Rogue, ON!, ALP, etc. Again, our compliments to ZYN.

Threat level: Chewing tobacco exposes users to lower levels of harmful chemicals than cigarettes, but can still cause cancer, according to the American Cancer Society .

Knock Tobacco Out of the Park says in a press release it has support from the Detroit Tigers. A spokesperson confirmed to Axios that Ilitch Sports + Entertainment supports the effort to protect public health.

Zoom out: MLB's 2016 collective bargaining agreement banned smokeless tobacco for new players.

Kevin O'Flaherty, associate VP of state and local advocacy for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids — a partner in the national effort — says he hopes with enough local policies banning it, the league and union will remove it from the game.

The intrigue: Passing this ordinance would make Comerica Park the 18th MLB stadium out of 30 to become entirely tobacco-free.

According to O'Flaherty, Detroit would be the first of the campaign's local policies to ban addictive, tobacco-leaf-free nicotine pouches like Zyn, which have become increasingly popular .

We believe there is a better way altogether for nicotine users to achieve their level of satisfaction without the potential risks and known health related issues from smoking ... how about NO HARMFUL INGREDIENTS INHALED INTO A NICOTINE USERS LUNGS. Period. "ZERO." www.Air2vapor.com

So, what about education related to the potential harm from Nicotine Pouches. Article from the The New York Times .

At Air2, we believe there is a better way to achieve TRUE nicotine reduction and reduce greatly the risks associated with Vaping harmful chemicals. VaporEFX

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UN-EDITED ARTICLE HERE.

To inhale or not to inhale...There is NO question!

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 18:20:04 GMT

WHO estimates at least 15 million teenagers use e-cigarettes worldwide. Nicotine reduction? We don't think so.

Summary:

WHO estimates over 100 million people worldwide use Vapes.
Among them are 15 million aged 13 to 15.
WHO warns of new addiction wave, even as tobacco use falls.
Urges stronger policies on tobacco, newer nicotine products.

The figures come as global tobacco use continues to decline, with the number of tobacco users falling to 1.2 billion in 2024 from 1.38 billion in 2000.

Think about it; Big Tobacco has you believing that a worldwide decrease in cigarette and tobacco use is a WIN. Not even close . For the individuals that made the choice to stop smoking cigarettes and begin Vaping, "kudos to you." It is definitely a step in the right direction towards overall health and wellness, by the overall reduction in harmful chemical exposure to the lungs alone, however, where is the step towards reduction of nicotine, coupled with not placing any harmful ingredients into a nicotine users lungs?

We believe there is a better way altogether ... how about NO HARMFUL INGREDIENTS INHALED INTO A NICOTINE USERS LUNGS. Period. "ZERO." www.Air2vapor.com

As ever-stricter regulations help cut tobacco use, the industry has turned to alternative products such as Vapes to help offset sales declines.

Tobacco companies say they target adult smokers, aiming to help them quit and reduce the harm of traditional tobacco.

But e-cigarettes are driving a "new wave of nicotine addiction", said Etienne Krug, director of the WHO department for health determinants, promotion and prevention.

"They are marketed as harm reduction but, in reality, are hooking kids on nicotine earlier and risk undermining decades of progress."

Governments and health authorities are grappling with how to balance the potential benefits and risks of e-cigarettes, namely uptake by new nicotine users.

Region by Region:

The decline in traditional tobacco use varied sharply by region. Male tobacco prevalence in Southeast Asia nearly halved to 37% in 2024 from 70% in 2000, accounting for more than half the global decline.

Europe now has the highest tobacco prevalence globally at 24.1%, with its women engaging in the world's highest female tobacco use at 17.4%.

The WHO warned that nearly one in five adults worldwide still use tobacco products , and called for stronger enforcement of tobacco control measures and regulation of new nicotine products such as Vapes.

So, what is the next Pandemic? Teenagers with popcorn lung, addicted to their Vapes ingredients + Nicotine??

There is a better way to achieve TRUE nicotine reduction and reduce greatly the risks associated with Vaping harmful chemicals. VaporEFX

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UN-EDITED ARTICLE HERE.

Exclusive: US FDA to fast-track nicotine pouch reviews

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 20:30:27 GMT

Exclusive: US FDA to fast-track nicotine pouch reviews amid White House pressure.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (" FDA ") plans to fast-track reviews of four tobacco firms' nicotine pouches in a pilot program launching on Monday, amid pressure from the Trump administration to speed up approvals, according to meeting transcripts seen by Reuters.

The FDA aims to finish reviewing the pouches from Philip Morris International (PM.N), Altria (MO.N), Reynolds American - part of British American Tobacco (BATS.L) , and Turning Point Brands (TPB.N) , by December, according to one transcript of an agency meeting held on Friday.

U.S. based innovative companies such as Air 2, LLC , manufacturer of VaporEFX are questioning why safer, less harmful, alternative nicotine products are also not being evaluated and considered by the FDA for this pilot approval and fast-track program.

Companies typically must wait an average of five years for FDA sales and marketing approval.

Tobacco companies have previously had to wait years for their products to be cleared. The agency authorized its first group of pouches, 20 of PMI's pouch products under its successful label Zyn, in January, over five years after the company first submitted its application.

Some of the products selected for the pilot, such as an updated version of PMI's pouches, Zyn Ultra, are not yet on the market as producers wait for the FDA's green light. Rivals have gained market share with more competitive products in the meantime.

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UN-EDITED ARTICLE HERE.

BAT's ambition to become a predominantly smokeless business by 2035

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 15:45:48 GMT

How BAT’s tobacco-free oral nicotine strategy is reshaping the public health conversation in the Middle East.

BAT’s initiatives like Omni™ represent a turning point — not just for the company, but for informed public health professionals to embrace THR and adopt progressive regulatory policies.

In a bold move that could accelerate the region’s journey toward a smokeless future, British American Tobacco ME DMCC — representing the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) cluster recently unveiled Omni™ — an evidence-based, dynamic scientific resource that provides an overview of the science supporting smokeless products and offers a summary of global evidence base in support of tobacco harm reduction (THR) created over the last decade.

But Omni™ is more than just a scientific resource. It’s a signal of strategic intent — a blueprint for THR and a platform to foster transparency, education, and collaboration across regulators, policymakers, health professionals, and investors.

For BAT, it underscores their ambition to become a predominantly smokeless business by 2035 — and in the Middle East, that ambition is being met with growing interest and cautious optimism.

To understand how BAT is navigating this regional transformation, we sat down with Will Brockbank, the BAT area marketing director for the APMEA West region, who offered rare insights into the company’s regional roadmap and the behavioral shifts quietly reshaping nicotine consumption.

A smokeless pivot in progress.

“The recent announcement by the UAE to regulate tobacco-free oral nicotine pouches is very much welcomed by us at BAT,” Brockbank said. “It’s a step in the right direction, creating a framework that prioritizes product safety, hygiene, and quality manufacturing.”

Such frameworks, he explained, are critical in achieving THR goals. Drawing on international examples, he pointed to countries like the UK, Japan, and notably Sweden — the last is expected to declare itself smoke-free years ahead of the EU’s 2040 target to achieve a smoke-free generation, largely thanks to its recognition and regulation of smokeless products as part of its public health policy.

“Countries like Sweden benefit from smart regulation that recognizes the potential role of smokeless products in reducing smoking prevalence,” Brockbank added.

A research done in the MEA region conducted by Kantar, a global data, insights, and consulting company, reinforces the potential role for smokeless products in the Middle East. In the UAE, 83 percent of adult smokers are open to switching to smokeless alternatives.

In Saudi Arabia, that figure is 30 percent. “The willingness is there,” he said. “What we need now is a clear, honest dialogue with regulators and public health stakeholders to push forward sensible, science-backed policies.”

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UNEDITED ARTICLE HERE.

Federal Judge Rules FDA Tobacco Penalties Unconstitutional

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:31:47 GMT

Federal Judge Rules FDA Tobacco Penalties Unconstitutional Without Jury Trial.

On Friday (August 1), in a landmark ruling, a federal judge sided with vape company Wulferic, LLC in its lawsuit against the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), declaring the agency’s civil penalties process unconstitutional under the Seventh Amendment.

Wulferic, which operates as Vapor Lab, had been fined by the FDA for selling unauthorized e-liquids. The company challenged the penalty, arguing it was entitled to a jury trial. U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor agreed, ruling that the FDA’s administrative process for assessing fines violated the constitutional right to a jury in civil cases. The decision could significantly weaken the FDA’s enforcement powers over tobacco and nicotine products.

“The Wulferic decision is the first case to find that the FD&C Act’s CMP provision for tobacco products is unconstitutional — but the catch is that it didn’t actually order FDA to stop carrying on as usual with respect to anybody else,” Andrew J. Hull and Peter G. Dickos wrote for the FDA Law Blog. “Wulferic threatens to significantly dismantle FDA’s arsenal of actions to enforce compliance with the FD&C Act’s tobacco provisions, and we expect many more similar challenges to follow if FDA stays on its current course.”

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UNEDITED ARTICLE HERE.

Is FDA's Civil Money Penalty Authority Dead, and If So, What Does It Mean for Life Sciences Companies?

ARTICLE :

Nicotine Pouches meet Energy Drinks. What to know about caffeine pouches

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 17:27:32 GMT

A cross between a nicotine pouch and an energy drink: What to know about caffeine pouches.

Teen-friendly promotion of the product is spreading on social media. Adding to the concerns is a caffeine pouch startup from a former Juul marketing executive.

David Gomez, a school resource officer for the Boise County Sheriff’s Office in Idaho, started noticing caffeine pouches last spring. Students were using the pillow-shaped pouches, which can contain more than 200 milligrams of caffeine, alongside nicotine pouches like Zyn.

They’ll use them either as a disguise for nicotine pouch usage — caffeine and nicotine pouches often look virtually identical — or a complement to it, Gomez said.

“They’ll use the Zyn pouches that they put in their lip, and then they’ll take a caffeine pouch,” he added. “They don’t care what it is they’re putting in their lip.”

New Concern over caffeine pouch use: NEWS VIDEO :

The use of caffeine pouches among teens is still relatively rare. But some experts and educators have concerns that that could soon change. Teen-friendly marketing of these products is spreading on social media. And Richard Mumby, the marketing executive who helped launch the e-cigarette Juul, which was widely blamed for sparking a teen vaping epidemic , is back with a caffeine pouch startup called Wip .

Caffeine is part of “the fabric of many Americans’ everyday lives,” Mumby told NBC News — but he argues there’s room for improvement.

The health effects of caffeine pouches are not well-studied. But not all experts are sold on this new form of caffeine delivery.

Rob van Dam, a professor of exercise and nutrition sciences at George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health who studies caffeine, voiced concerns about the potency of some pouches on the market, particularly for consumers who are not used to them. “It may be a bit different than coffee,” he said. “It may hit faster, and you may overdose, in a way, more quickly.”

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UNEDITED ARTICLE HERE.

The Harm Reduction Race. Who's Winning?

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 21:36:58 GMT

The race is on for success in harm reduction: encouraging smokers to switch completely to reduced risk alternatives. Evidence of this rapidly evolving trend can be seen from all lanes — consumers, manufacturers, retailers, the government and even public health.

The widespread and growing availability of these products at retail has led to not only adult consumer awareness, but also interest and acceptance, as demonstrated by the rapid growth of the e-cigarette and modern oral categories in the United States. The modern oral (pouch) market has grown significantly over the past several years with some industry reports indicating a $1 billion increase in U.S. retail sales between 2022 and 2023.

Every major tobacco manufacturer — Altria Group Inc., Reynolds American Inc., ITG Brands LLC, Japan Tobacco International USA Inc. and Philip Morris International Inc. (PMI) — now has a reduced-risk tobacco/nicotine product strategy as a significant, if not primary, commitment that is immediately apparent upon a visit to their website home pages.

These reduced-risk strategies are playing out domestically through modern oral nicotine pouches and e-cigarettes (vapor). Globally, heat-not-burn devices are out in front in countries such as Japan, where smoking formerly dominated.

The FDA authorizes reduced-risk alternatives via a limited number of premarket tobacco product application (PMTA) and modified risk tobacco product (MRTP) classifications. At Air2, we'd like to believe that the #FDA has not not given up on innovation and the science behind truly safer, reduce harm nicotine products, such as Air2's VaporEFX Inhaler and Sublingual . #VaporEFX

Altria’s Anderson agrees. To make true harm reduction a reality, he believes there needs to be faster progress from the FDA in three key areas:

Authorizing smokefree products
Informing adult smokers about the benefits of switching to smokefree alternatives
Enforcing the law to eliminate illicit e-vapor products

“A strong course-correction is needed to protect the harm reduction opportunity for the 30 million adult smokers in the U.S.,” said Anderson, explaining that consumers are misinformed about the role of nicotine, for starters. “The FDA has authorized only a handful of smokefree products, woefully insufficient to meet the growing adult tobacco consumer demand. And the marketplace is being overrun by illicit disposable e-vapor products that are flouting FDA regulation and contributing to underage use.”

“Millions of adult smokers are seeking new options, including those that reduce risk, and their preferences are evolving rapidly,” Davien Anderson, a spokesperson for Altria, told Convenience Store News. “We believe it is our responsibility to create the conditions for harm reduction to succeed — through education, awareness and advocacy — as we build a strong portfolio of #smokefree products that satisfy adult smokers’ evolving interests and preferences. We know that millions of adult consumers 21-plus are interested in completely switching from cigarettes to a smokefree tobacco product.”

At Reynolds American, its vision of “Building a Smokeless World” means becoming a predominantly smokeless business with 50% of its revenue from noncombustible products by 2035. “We have already started our transformation journey and year by year, we will continue to actively encourage adult smokers who are uninterested in quitting tobacco products altogether to transition to smokeless alternatives,” a company spokesperson said.

The launch of heat-not-burn devices in the U.S. by PMI in October 2024, as well as the expanded consideration of other tobacco harm products internationally, will factor into the future success of harm reduction.

“These are important developments because every adult consumer has different needs and subjective preferences, and we must meet them where they are, both in their risk reduction journey and in the places and occasions that require this widened scope of products.

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UNEDITED ARTICLE HERE.

Advancing harm reduction strategies: A new role for oral nicotine products.

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 20:51:21 GMT

Globally, public health strategies have focused on tobacco control measures to make smoking less appealing. While tobacco control has a role to play, it is only part of the solution.

There is a growing scientific consensus that reduced-risk products can play a significant role in reducing the health impacts associated with cigarette smoking.

On a panel discussion “Evaluating WHO Tobacco Harm Reduction Science”, Summer Hanna, Head of Scientific Regulation at BAT , said:

“Unfortunately, over the last 20 years, we've seen that scientific mindset and curiosity erode. We now have leading jurisdictions of tobacco control—countries like the UK or New Zealand—with progressive regulatory frameworks and remarkable declines in the rate of cigarette smoking. Meanwhile, WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) is still reporting, 20 years later, over one billion smokers. To me, that's a failure of creativity and scientific process.”

At Air2, we'd like to believe that we have not given up on innovation and the science behind truly safer, reduce harm nicotine products, such as Air2's VaporEFX Inhaler and Sublingual .

What are Nicotine Pouches anyway?

Oral nicotine pouches are made from a cellulose-based fille, flavors and nicotine - undergo rigorous safety assessments, and meet or exceed stringent regulatory standards. Due to their simple composition, oral nicotine pouches carry the lowest risk profile among smokeless tobacco and nicotine products. Notably, they contain less than 1% of the harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke.

Sweden: A model for effective tobacco harm reduction .

Sweden continues to lead the way in demonstrating real-world outcomes of harm reduction strategies. The country has the lowest smoking prevalence in the European Union at 5.4%, despite similar tobacco use per capita to the EU average.

Long-term epidemiological data confirms that snus – a traditional Swedish oral tobacco product – is significantly lower risk compared to cigarettes.

Today, half of Swedish adults under 30 who previously used snus have now switched to oral nicotine pouches. As a result, Sweden has the lowest mortality rates from lung, trachea, bronchus, and oral cavity cancers in the EU.

However, despite this compelling evidence, snus remains banned outside Sweden under EU regulation – highlighting the need for more proportionate and science-based regulation for oral nicotine products across the region.

Our Takeaway:

BAT’s Commitment to Science, Transparency, and Innovation.

BAT remains committed to advancing tobacco harm reduction through robust scientific research, transparent communication, and next-generation product development. The company actively collaborates with regulators, public health bodies, and independent researchers to support responsible innovation.

To further these efforts, BAT recently launched Omni™, a dedicated platform to share the science of tobacco harm reduction and foster collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and public health professionals.

VIEW THE ORIGINAL, UNEDITED ARTICLE HERE.

Alp's Momentum Accelerates, But Upside Is Limited.

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 16:03:17 GMT

Moist? Moister? Moistest... Alp's Momentum Accelerates, But Upside Is Limited.

Turning Point Brands' Q1 results showed very strong nicotine pouch momentum, growing by nearly ten-fold through Alp's and Fre's momentum. Could the addition of a TRULY MOIST Nicotine Spray, Sublingual and Inhaler to Turning Points portfolio change the narrative to an UNLIMITED upside prediction?

Tucker and ALP. Instagram Post . We would be very curious to learn of other nicotine pouch users experience related to the SMELL of a nicotine pouch. We don't get the smell. Wouldn't a MOIST nicotine pouch smell much more than a dry pouch? Just curious.

Turning Point Brands, Inc. (TPB) reported the company’s Q1 results on the 7th of May, showing a great start to 2025 from the nicotine product & rolling paper company. The report underlines TPB’s fast momentum in nicotine pouches, driven by surging interest in brands Alp and Fre as well as general growth in the product category. Zig-Zag brand offset some of the momentum, but the report was clearly bullish based on Alp’s momentum. At the time of writing, TPB is up 19% thanks to the strong report.

TPB’s Nicotine Pouch Narrative Is Accelerating. TPB’s Q1 report clearly exceeded expectations. Revenues came in at $106.4 million, up by 28.1% year-on-year and beating Wall Street’s consensus by a $10.7 million margin. Along with great revenue growth, the adjusted EPS of $0.91 beat Wall Street’s consensus by $0.13. As the weakly performing CDS segment is now in discontinued operations, the quarter showed TPB’s great and improving underlying growth.

Behind the momentum, TPB’s entry into nicotine pouches through Fre and Alp is already showing great results.

The Stoker’s segment reached revenues of $59.2 million with massive growth of 62.7% with strength across the segment’s brands. Moist smokeless tobacco sales grew by low double-digit percentages and loose-leaf by low single-digit percentages, whereas nicotine pouches experienced nearly ten-fold year-on-year growth to a total of $22.3 million in Q1 revenues alone. The increase in Stoker’s segment revenues was accompanied by a 30 basis point expansion in the segment’s gross margin to 57.5%.

Takeaway

TPB reported a great Q1 as the company’s nicotine pouches are gaining momentum. Zig-Zag’s quarter was more subdued, but Alp’s continued success overwrites the rolling paper business’s weak growth. Margins took a small hit from Zig-Zag and higher Alp-related operating expenses, but TPB’s long-term margin prospects remain intact. Even with raised financial estimates, I don’t believe TPB to have significant base scenario upside. As such, I remain with a Hold rating.

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Can Smoke-Free Products Power Philip Morris' Next Decade of Growth?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 21:29:25 GMT

Can Smoke-Free Products Power Philip Morris' Next Decade of Growth?

Philip Morris International Inc. PM is rapidly transforming its business model to align with the global shift toward reduced-risk products. In the first quarter of 2025, smoke-free products accounted for 44% of the company’s total gross profit — an impressive milestone that reflects its serious push to become a majority smoke-free firm.

At the heart of Philip Morris’ transformation is its multi-category strategy, led by IQOS, ZYN and VEEV. IQOS, a scientifically backed heat-not-burn device, continues to gain traction globally, delivering 9.4% HTU-adjusted IMS growth in the first quarter despite regulatory headwinds in Europe. Meanwhile, ZYN's performance in the United States has been exceptional, with shipments up 53% year over year to 202 million cans.

Article Summary:

PMI's Smoke Free Vision.
With products available in 95 markets and almost 38.6 million adult users globally, PM’s smoke-free vision is materializing. Backed by scientific innovation, strategic partnerships and manufacturing investments, the company is on a clear path to achieving a majority smoke-free future.
PMI’s Competition in the Smoke-Free Category .
A ltria Group, Inc. MO and British American Tobacco p.l.c. BTI are the key tobacco companies competing with Philip Morris in the smoke-free category.
PMI’s Price Performance, Valuation and Estimates .
Shares of Philip Morris have rallied 51.4% year to date compared with the industry ’s growth of 38.5%. From a valuation standpoint, PM trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 23.27X, above the industry’s average of 15.46X.

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Oral nicotine products steal the spotlight as the vape category grapples with illicit products and FDA delays.

Fri, 30 May 2025 17:05:21 GMT

Modern oral nicotine steals the spotlight as the Vape category grapples with illicit products and PMTA delays.

“In the Pacific Northwest, chewing tobacco and snuff continues its consistent decline year over year,” explained Jon Manuyag, director of marketing, Plaid Pantry. “Consumers in the smokeless categories are shifting more towards the modern oral nicotine pouches like ZYN, ON!, Rogue, Velo and Grizzly. That is the segment where we see the most consistent positive double-digit trends.”

“Traditional smokeless is flat for us, and smokeless alternatives are up double digits,” said Jessica Starnes, director of loyalty and tobacco category manager, Weigel’s. “We are seeing the most growth in the nicotine pouches, and we are leaning into dedicating more space to nicotine pouches.”

Article Summary:

Smokeless Nicotine Growth.
Goldman Sachs’ Q1 Nicotine Nuggets survey representing approximately 48,000 retail locations across the U.S. concurred that smokeless nicotine volume growth continued in Q1, led by modern oral nicotine brands ZYN and Rogue. Respondents were positive about the category going forward, expecting strong sales increases in 2025.
Smokeless category overall grew 12.3% .
Chicago-based research firm Circana found that the smokeless category overall grew 12.3% in dollar sales and 8% in unit sales in the convenience channel for the 52 weeks ending April 20. Snuff fell 5.6% in dollar sales and dropped 9.3% in unit sales, while chewing tobacco declined 6.9% in dollar sales and decreased 7.5% in unit sales.

As the popularity of nicotine pouches has grown, however, Manuyag noted there’s been additional pressure on the category. Over the past six months, Plaid Pantry has seen supply chain issues from large nicotine pouch manufactures due to the increase in demand.
Inflation and discretionary income spending.
Goldman Sachs noted in its Q1 Nicotine Nuggets survey that it is “incrementally cautious on the U.S. tobacco/nicotine industry in the near term given increased pressure on the tobacco consumer from persistent inflation, pressure on discretionary incomes and tighter regulations, all of which are driving lower usage of cigs and further down trading.”
Black Market sales of illicit, disposable flavored e-cigs.
“E-cigarette volumes decelerated, reflecting the rising popularity of illicit disposable flavored e-cigs, much of which is not reported, and a growing concern for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and category,” according to the survey. The survey further noted that only 10% of retailers report easing illicit e-cigarette headwinds, compared to 17% in January. While FDA enforcement is said to be underway, most retailers report that progress is slow and “not enough to make a meaningful impact.”

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Young males, prior cigarette or e-cigarette users most likely to use oral nicotine pouches

Tue, 13 May 2025 15:14:46 GMT

The nicotine industry is constantly innovating, delivering new products to the market – and that keeps public health researchers busy as they work to understand the implications of each new offering.

A team from MUSC Hollings Cancer Center has just published a paper in JAMA Network Open describing oral nicotine pouch usage – one of the first papers to look at how common this product is.

Hollings researcher Amanda Palmer, Ph.D. , a research instructor in the Department of Public Health Sciences , led the study.

“These products were introduced just a few years ago, so they're still pretty new, and a lot of the surveys have only recently started tracking usage,” she said. “So all of these data are really new in terms of what the use prevalence is. But it’s good to have that baseline for future research because – like we saw with e-cigarettes – these novel products really seem to be taking off. And that can have some important implications for public health.”

Article Summary:

Oral Nicotine Pouches.
Oral nicotine pouches are similar to Swedish snus, or snuff, but they use a synthetically-produced, crystalized nicotine salt powder – similar to what’s used in nicotine replacement medications like gum and lozenges – rather than actual tobacco leaves. The powder is in a small pouch that is placed between the lip and the gum, where the nicotine is then absorbed into the body. Popular brand names include Zyn, Rogue and Lucy.
Young male nicotine pouch use is increasing.
T hose most likely to use oral nicotine pouches were males in late adolescence or early adulthood. “The highest odds of use were among people who were already using or had in the past used other tobacco products like cigarettes, e-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco,” Palmer said. Although overall usage was low – less than 1% of adolescents and 3.34% of adults reported ever using oral nicotine pouches – the few other reports that exist as reference points seem to indicate that usage is increasing.
Smoking, pouches and overall health.
“Public health has done a really great job at putting out messaging that smoking is one of the most harmful things you can do for your health, and that quitting has all of these great benefits,” she continued. “Unfortunately, quitting smoking is still really hard to do, and I think a lot of people have these health concerns and are looking for alternative approaches to improving their health.”
Health risks and social problem.
“Just like with e-cigarettes, these also contain nicotine, which is addictive,” Palmer said. “There can be some negative outcomes from that. Not only from a health standpoint, but there's psychological distress that can come with nicotine dependance. There are social problems. There's financial strain. So we want to also monitor some of the potentially aversive effects of pouches and potentially come up with ways to mitigate some of those risks for people.”

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48% of military veterans experiencing serious psychological stress report use of tobacco.

Wed, 07 May 2025 15:18:14 GMT

Quitting Is Strength:
Changing the Narrative on Tobacco Use in the Military

What if the greatest threat to our veterans’ health isn’t on the battlefield, but in their pockets?

Article Summary:

Our Military and tobacco.
For decades, tobacco companies worked hard to associate their products with military service.
They handed out free cigarettes to troops during wartime. They sponsored events on military bases. They sold products at steep discounts in commissaries and exchanges. The strategy was simple : Build loyalty among young service members and make smoking part of military culture.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
V eterans are more likely to use tobacco than nonveterans . 48% of military veterans experiencing serious psychological stress report current use of tobacco products . And among veterans living in poverty or without health insurance, tobacco use rates are as high as 60% .

Protecting those who protect us.
This isn’t just about addiction. It’s about how systems have failed to offer support, how military culture has normalized unhealthy coping mechanisms, and how easy access continues to undercut efforts to quit. And at its core, it’s about protecting the health and wellbeing of those who served to protect us.

Easy access and less expensive alternatives.
A pproximately 38% of current military smokers began using tobacco after they enlisted in military service .
Even today, many base exchanges and commissaries sell cigarettes and smokeless tobacco at prices that are lower than nearby civilian retailers. The military remains a stronghold of smokeless tobacco use, in particular. Among younger enlisted troops, dip is often seen as a more discreet option during long shifts, field exercises or deployments where smoking isn’t possible.
Although an alternative, not all smokeless tobacco is safe.
This isn’t a harmless alternative. According to the National Cancer Institute, smokeless tobacco is linked to cancers of the mouth, esophagus and pancreas, and causes serious gum disease and tooth loss .

Breaking the Stigma: Seeking Support to Quit.
While policies and resources to support quitting are expanding, stigma remains a significant barrier for many veterans. Military culture often prizes toughness, resilience and self-sufficiency — traits that can make it harder for individuals to seek help when facing addiction.
What needs to happen next?
To reduce tobacco use among veterans, we need to:
Eliminate pricing loopholes that allow tobacco to be sold cheaply on base.
Continue to scale up veteran-specific cessation tools, including peer-led models.
Ensure every behavioral health and substance use program includes a plan for tobacco treatment.
Invest in outreach that resonates with veterans’ values, identities and lived experiences.

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Tobacco smokers switching to vaping, which presents its own health risks

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 14:09:41 GMT

More tobacco smokers switching to vaping, which presents its own health risks.

Declining numbers of tobacco smokers since 1965 are being offset by growing numbers of people vaping e-cigarettes.

Trends are seeing people looking for alternatives in a way that are not always a healthy choice. Cigarette smokers do understand that smoking tobacco can lead to a health disaster so they are looking for substitutes. Unfortunately, smokers and our youth picked another bad habit, which is vaping.

Article Summary:

Inhaled tobacco smoke infiltrates the brain within 20 seconds — making it as addictive as opioids, alcohol, and cocaine. The nicotine results in a dopamine release that makes a person feel good. But along the way, the smoke trails down the throat, coats the lungs, constricts blood vessels and allows for plaque buildup so blood flow may be decreased to vital organs. It is a dangerous delivery system.

Researchers have been mapping this for decades . However, smoking is still the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. The vast majority of smokers understand the risks and would like to quit, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While half reported trying to quit in the past year, less than 1 in 10 adults succeed in any given year. So people are looking for alternatives — and vaping is one of them.

The CDC released a report March 6 finding that the number of adults smoking cigarettes decreased by about 6.8 million adults from 2017 to 2023 but was offset by an approximate 7.2 million person increase in adults who use e-cigarettes.

It is well documented that 90 percent of smokers started as adolescents , reports the CDC. Those decisions are not based upon a stark analysis of facts. Instead, it is swayed by a youthful perception of “coolness,” an inexperienced burst of adventure, a moment that reduces anxiety and stress, especially for those with yet-undiagnosed addictive personalities, ADHD, and schizophrenia.

As for vaping, early research indicates it increases risk for lung diseases , such as COPD, and a worsening of asthma symptoms. Yet, there are chemicals involved as well, and research is ongoing. In addition, e-cigarette users can buy extra-strength cartridges or increase the e-cigarette's voltage for a greater hit. If utilized, those tactics will not reduce nicotine addiction.

The FDA is considering a proposal to reduce nicotine levels in tobacco cigarettes to make them nearly non-addictive. While many applaud such a move, others voice concerns that black market sales would increase.

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How Tobacco Can Harm Your Heart

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:01:31 GMT

How using cigars, pipes, or smokeless tobacco can harm your heart.

The data on the health effects from smoking cigarettes has been clear for decades. Today, tobacco use causes nearly 1 in 5 deaths each year in the U.S. While many of these deaths are cancer-related, researchers have found that people who smoke are more likely to die from heart disease than lung cancer.

While cigarette smoking rates have plummeted from nearly 50% of adults in the 1960s to just under 12% in 2022, people use other tobacco products at about the same rate as they always have. While graphic new warning labels will soon help remind people of the dangers of cigarettes, no such labels are required for non-cigarette products.

Summary of article:

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2021 estimates that among U.S. adults:

3.5% smoked cigars
0.9% report pipe and/or hookah use
2.1% used smokeless tobacco products such as snuff or dip

How tobacco products affect cardiovascular health.

When it comes to the health of your heart and blood vessels, tobacco products can cause major problems. When you smoke or dip, nicotine and other harmful chemicals enter your bloodstream where they begin to cause damage and inflammation. This damage can lead to the development of atherosclerosis, when plaque builds up inside your arteries.

Nicotine, the highly addictive substance found in most tobacco products and in many e-cigarettes, can cause several cardiovascular problems, including:

Hardening and narrowing of arteries
Increased blood pressure
Increased heart rate

After standardizing data from the cohort of studies, the authors identified an increased risk of specific heart and blood vessel conditions associated with each type of tobacco product:

Use of cigars increased the risk of:
Stroke
Atrial fibrillation
Heart failure
Smokeless tobacco led to a higher risk of:
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
Death from coronary heart disease
Pipe use was associated with a higher risk of:
Heart failure

Changing how we talk about tobacco:

While I always talk with my patients about the dangers of cigarette smoking, we often don’t discuss whether they dip or smoke a pipe or cigars.

Article by:

Dr. Amit Khera M.D.

Director, Preventative Cardiology, Chief of Cardiology, Clinical Operations

VIEW ENTIRE ARTICLE HERE:

Tobacco and alcohol use and suicide among adolescents

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:10:10 GMT

Studies show a significant association between tobacco and alcohol use and increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescents, including ideation, planning, and attempts.

Tobacco and alcohol consumption are strongly associated with the risk of suicide behaviors among adolescents, particularly among girls. Country-level tobacco control strategies may have the potential to reduce risks of suicide behaviors associated with tobacco use among adolescents.

Research consistently indicates that adolescents who use alcohol and tobacco products are at a higher risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviors compared to those who do not.

Summary of article:

Increased Risk:
Research consistently indicates that adolescents who use alcohol and tobacco products are at a higher risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviors compared to those who do not.
Specific Findings:
A study using data from the CDC survey found a significantly higher proportion of suicide attempts among adolescents who reported alcohol and tobacco use.
Another study found that adolescents who consumed energy drinks frequently (5 or more times per week) had substantially higher odds of suicide attempts.
A study of preadolescent children found statistically significant associations between children's use of tobacco products and suicide attempts.
Mechanisms:
Substance use can worsen mood, impulsivity, and aggression, all of which are risk factors for suicide.
Nicotine, a substance found in tobacco, is thought to cause these behavioral problems.
Alcohol use disorder and acute alcohol use also increase the risk for suicidal behaviors.
Importance of Early Intervention:
The findings emphasize the importance of addressing substance use in adolescents as a crucial part of suicide prevention efforts.
Primary care physicians should ask their adolescent patients about their substance use to identify and address potential risks.
Other Risk Factors:
While substance use is a significant risk factor, it's important to note that suicide is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors, including mental health conditions like depression, substance abuse, and aggressive behavior disorders.
Other risk factors include previous suicide attempts, a history of depression or other mental illnesses, serious illnesses, and criminal/legal problems.

STUDY CONCLUSION:

VIEW STUDY / ARTICLE

Components in tobacco smoke and electronic cigarette form adducts with DNA.

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 16:41:14 GMT

Components in tobacco smoke and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) aerosol form adducts with DNA , which can cause DNA mutations and affect repair of DNA damage.

DNA adducts are significant biomarkers of tobacco exposure
Numerous studies have shown a strong association between inhaled smoke and lung cancer. The presence of DNA adducts can indicate chemical components of smoke. Therefore, DNA adducts are significant biomarkers of tobacco exposure that might predict lung disease status and serve as precursors to lung cancer, since they trigger DNA mutations and impair biological processes such as DNA replication and transcription.

In 2019, the United States experienced an outbreak of lung injuries
In recent years, e-cigarettes have been popular among young people because of their unique flavor and they are considered a substitute for conventional cigarettes. However, e-cigarettes are not harmless. In 2019, the United States experienced an outbreak of lung injuries associated with the use of e-cigarettes and e-cigarette products, thus resulting in 2800 hospitalizations, and highlighting the dangers of e-cigarettes and products.

Chemical carcinogens in conventional cigarettes and e-cigarettes

Conventional cigarette smoke and e-cigarette aerosol contain different types and concentrations of chemical carcinogens. Many chemical carcinogens in conventional cigarettes and e-cigarettes are reactive and challenging to measure directly.

Biological Consequence
The formation of DNA adducts is a crucial initial event in the induction of mutations and triggering of cancer development through chemical carcinogens, thus linking chemical carcinogens to cancer occurrence at the molecular level. The biological effects of DNA adducts include impeding DNA replication, inducing mutations that can lead to cancer, and being closely associated with aging

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FDA Authorizes Zyn Nicotine Pouches

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:53:58 GMT

Nicotine pouches gaining popularity among teens, raising concerns for doctors and advocacy groups.

A discreet way to consume nicotine is catching the attention of advocacy groups and physicians who worry that pouches containing the addictive chemical - meant strictly for adults 21 and over - are ending up in the hands of teenagers.

Zyn is one of several brands selling fiber pouches about the size of a small stick of gum. Filled with nicotine salts, the pouches are designed to be placed between the gums and lips and come in a variety of flavors.

"We are seeing it from the pediatric standpoint, mostly in older adolescents," said Dr. Marcos Mestre, Clinical Operations Officer at Nicklaus Health System. "We typically see it more in what we call an outpatient basis within the clinics as we're doing our screenings."

FDA authorizes Zyn nicotine pouches, cites lower risk than cigarettes.

The Food and Drug Administration authorized the marketing of 20 Zyn products on Thursday, marking the first such move by the regulator for the fast-growing nicotine pouches segment.

Pouches Pose a Lower Risk

The authorized products pose a lower risk of cancer and other serious health conditions than cigarettes and most smokeless tobacco products, such as moist snuff and snus, due to substantially lower amounts of harmful constituents, the agency said in a statement.

FDA Nicotine Reduction Excludes Nicotine Pouches
The move comes one day after the FDA unveiled a proposed rule that would make tobacco companies cut nicotine levels to non-addictive levels in cigarettes , most cigars and other combustible tobacco products sold nationwide. The proposed rule excluded nicotine pouches such as Zyn, vaping products, hookahs and premium cigars.

The products are authorized to be sold to people 21 and older, the FDA said in a news release , but the agency did not say they were safe. "There is no safe tobacco product; youth should not use tobacco products and adults who do not use tobacco products should not start."

Is The FDA Setting a Dangerous Precedent?
The FDA's move has set a "dangerous precedent," said Yolonda Richardson, president and CEO of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, adding that the nicotine pouch products with flavors such as chill, citrus, cool mint and peppermint clearly appeal to kids.

READ ENTIRE ARTICLE HERE:

Other Related News of Interest:

PHILIP MORRIS INVESTS MILLION IN ZYN

THE CDC AND NICOTINE POUCHES

FDA AUTHORIZES ZYN NICOTINE POUCHES

WHY CHILDREN AND TEENS SHOULD AVOID NICOTINE POUCHES

FDA Proposes Significant Step Toward Reducing Nicotine

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 16:53:58 GMT

On January 15, 2025, the FDA proposed a rule to reduce nicotine levels in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products to minimally or non-addictive levels, aiming to prevent addiction and encourage cessation. Here are the details of the proposal:

A Cap on Tobacco products Level of Nicotine
The FDA is proposing to cap the nicotine level at 0.7 milligrams per gram of tobacco in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products, which is significantly lower than the average concentration in these products on the market today.

A Switch to Lower Risk Alternatives
In addition to preventing initiation among young people and promoting cessation among all population groups, the FDA expects that the proposal would also help adults who smoke switch to lower-risk alternatives.

A Reduction to Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
For adults who smoke, switching completely to lower-risk tobacco products would reduce exposure to the many harmful chemicals present in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. However, no tobacco product is safe; therefore, youth should not use tobacco products and adults who do not currently use them should not start.

A Reduction in Smoking Among 48 Million U.S. Youth and Young Adults
This nicotine product standard could prevent approximately 48 million U.S. youth and young adults from starting smoking. The model also projects that more than 12.9 million people who smoke cigarettes would stop doing so one year after the rule becomes effective, including those who would completely switch to non-combusted tobacco products; this estimate increases to 19.5 million people within five years of the rule being finalized.

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Reducing Nicotine in Tobacco Products; a Game Changer

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 16:53:58 GMT

Reducing Nicotine in Tobacco Products Would Be a Game Changer

Reducing Nicotine to Non-Addictive Levels

Reducing nicotine to non-addictive levels in cigarettes, cigars and other tobacco products would fulfill a major promise inherent in the Tobacco Control Act to save millions of lives and is why Congress gave FDA the authority to reduce nicotine levels in tobacco products to any amount above zero. Once finalized, this rule could be a game changer in our nation’s efforts to eliminate tobacco use.

Making tobacco products non-addictive would dramatically reduce the number of young people who become hooked when they are experimenting. To fully address the toll of tobacco on our nation’s health and across all communities, it is critical to reduce nicotine levels to non-addictive levels in all commercial tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. The Lung Association looks forward to reviewing the proposed rule and providing comments to FDA.

The American Lung Association stated :
"We also note with concern, and some frustration, that there are no FDA approved nicotine cessation medications for youth. The e-cigarette epidemic has created a new generation of youth nicotine users for which clinicians have no highly effective pharmaceutical interventions. While the harms of long-term e-cigarette use are yet to be fully described, pulmonary physicians continue to see cases of severe lung disease caused by e-cigarette use – including cases unrelated to vitamin E-acetate, the main cause of the spike in cases during the 2019 E-Cigarette, or Vaping Product, Use Associated Lung Injury or EVALI crisis."

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Colorado no longer top in the U.S. for youth e-cigarette use.

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 17:05:15 GMT

Once top in the nation for youth e-cigarette use, Colorado’s usage rate has sharply dropped after community response. Public health advocates urged vigilance, because consumption trends can change, often in surprising ways, and a number of trouble spots remain.

Colorado no longer top in the U.S. for youth e-cigarette use
Colorado no longer has the distinction of being the top in the U.S. for youth e-cigarette use. After a concerted, multi-faceted community response, the state’s rates have dropped sharply. The change echoes national trends.

Colorado was double the national rate in youth vaping
In 2017, Colorado led the nation in youth vaping, topping 37 states surveyed for the use of electronic cigarettes among high school students, according to numbers from a study by the CDC. It was double the national rate. Twenty-seven percent of Colorado high school students reported current use, using an electronic cigarette in the past 30 days.

Vaping in Colorado led to thousands of hospitalizations

In 2019, before the pandemic, the risks of vaping became headline news. Cases of vaping-associated lung injuries , led to thousands of hospitalizations, spanning every state, and dozens of deaths. It also raised awareness about potential health risks and caught the attention of both teens and schools.

Colorado was an early site for marketing of e-cigarette products
Colorado was an early site for marketing of e-cigarette products, said Ashley Brooks-Russell, an associate professor at the Colorado School of Public Health who leads the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey . That’s an anonymous and voluntary survey conducted every other year, with more than 100,000 participants. That may have driven Colorado’s numbers up earlier than elsewhere.

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Philip Morris International to invest $600 million in Colorado Zyn facility

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 17:32:16 GMT

Zyn parent company Philip Morris International to invest $600 million, create 500 jobs in Colorado. Aurora got a massive economic boost on Tuesday when Philip Morris International announced plans to build a 600,000 square foot manufacturing facility in a far northern part the city.

A shortage in Nicotine pouches
The company says the factory, which will produce the nicotine pouch, Zyn, represents an investment of about $600 million. It says it will break ground the end of the year south of Denver International Airport at East 48th Avenue and Harvest Road, and will begin operations by the end of 2025. So many smokers are turning to the nicotine pouches that there's now a shortage of them. They were originally created by Swedish Match, which Philip Morris International acquired two years ago.

Colorado is the birthplace of Zyn
The company which makes and sells only smokeless products in the U.S. says the new facility is expected to have an economic impact of $550 million a year.Stacey Kennedy, CEO of Philip Morris International, says the company has come full circle. Ten years ago, she says, Colorado became the first state in the country to sell Zyn. "Colorado is the birthplace of Zyn and we're coming home," Kennedy said. Kennedy says Colorado's emphasis on health and wellness makes it perhaps surprisingly the perfect place for the Zyn factory.

New facility will create 500 jobs in Colorado

The Philip Morris CEO won over many skeptics. The company received a $7 million incentive from the city of Aurora and about $4.5 million each from the state and Adams County. Kennedy says incentives aren't what set Colorado apart. "The diverse workforce was really a key element and the highly educated one." Over the last five years, Colorado has lost 680 pharmaceutical jobs, with transferrable skills. Kennedy says the new facility will create 500 jobs in everything from engineering to production to quality control.

Colorado Zyn facility to provide $1 billion economic impact

New Zyn manufacturing facility states the average salary will be about $90,000 a year, and the company will be investing in child care and pre-K for employees. It is also investing $2.5 million in military veteran organizations and transitional housing. In addition to the manufacturing jobs, construction of the facility is expected to create nearly 5,000 jobs and have an economic impact of nearly $1 billion.

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Colorado no longer top in the U.S. for youth e-cigarette use.

Once top in the nation for youth e-cigarette use, Colorado’s usage rate has sharply dropped after community response. Public health advocates urged vigilance, because consumption trends can change, often in surprising ways, and a number of trouble spots remain.

Philip Morris International to invest $600 million in Colorado Zyn facility

Zyn parent company Philip Morris International to invest $600 million, create 500 jobs in Colorado. Aurora got a massive economic boost on Tuesday when Philip Morris International announced plans to build a 600,000 square foot manufacturing facility in a far northern part the city.

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