FDA Publishes Proposed New Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield, Citing VLN from 22nd Century as the Only Combustible Cigarette That Complies with the New Standard

Core Viewpoint - The FDA has proposed a new Tobacco Product Standard that aims to significantly reduce nicotine levels in cigarettes, which could lead to a decrease in smoking-related morbidity and mortality, with 22nd Century's VLN products positioned to benefit from this regulation [1][6]. Group 1: FDA Proposed Standard - The proposed standard sets a maximum nicotine content of 0.7 mg per gram of tobacco in cigarettes and certain combusted tobacco products, expected to take effect in two years after final approval [2]. - The FDA anticipates that this standard could prevent approximately 48 million youth and young adults from initiating smoking by the year 2100 [6]. Group 2: 22nd Century's Position - 22nd Century's VLN products are the only combustible cigarettes authorized by the FDA as reduced nicotine content products, already compliant with the new standard and available in over 5,000 stores nationwide [2][3]. - The company emphasizes its commitment to nicotine harm reduction, providing smokers with a choice to control their nicotine consumption through products that contain 95% less nicotine than traditional cigarettes [5][8]. Group 3: Industry Impact - The FDA's proposal is seen as a potential game-changer in public health policy, aiming to reduce the burden of tobacco-related diseases and save lives [3][6]. - The proposed rule is expected to facilitate the commercial adoption of reduced nicotine products, which could lead to a significant shift in the tobacco industry landscape [3][4].