High-end cigar enthusiasts are appalled by the latest government ruling
on the production and sale of tobacco products in the US. A 499-page
decision by the Food and Drug Administration was met with criticism,
especially by small producers, who are now subject to more stringent and
possibly costly processes.
According to the proposed ruling, manufacturers big and small will be
required to undergo a certification procedure to ensure that their
products are properly labelled with the contents and warnings. It also
sets the minimum age at 18 years old. This proposal covers not just
cigars, but also traditional cigarettes, hookahs and e-cigarettes.
Mixed Reactions To The Ruling On Cigars
Health advocates are happy with the new rule, particularly because
the previous guidelines did not include the more modern forms of
tobacco, which have remained unregulated for the past years. The ruling
also helps curb the growing dependence on e-cigarettes by the youth.
However, fans of premium cigars argue that the product should not be
classified alongside the likes of vapes. They contend that since fancy
cigars cost about $5 to $10 each, this price point is not likely to be
appealing to the teens. In a statement to Consumer Affairs, CigarsCity.co owner Anthony Welch said that the median age for its cigar customers is 55.
The Threat To Indepependent Cigar Producers
The larger manufacturers of tobacco may not have a problem with the
new FDA ruling, but it is unlikely that boutique cigar shops can catch
up, especially with the 90-day deadline. Smaller stores are popular for
their custom, hand-rolled varieties and owners argue that lumping them
with the machine-made fare would be unfair, writes Reuters. Additionally, the certification processes may hike up operational and production costs for small players by 75 percent.
"The FDA took the path of least resistance. It is easier to make a
one-size fits all regulation than try to understand the nuances of the
industry," says Eric Newman, owner of the JC Newman Cigar Co of Tampa,
which has been in business since 1895.
"It's an artisan product; a labor of love for these manufacturers,"
said Kevin Talley, senior director of federal affairs for the
International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers Association. The group
represents some 5,000 small retailers across the US. Members of the
major cigar groups are expected to meet next week to decide on their
action and response.
The FDA, however, remains firm in its decision, citing that all
cigars pose a health risk whatever the age of its consumer. "To exclude
some would be neglecting our duty to protect public health," announced
Mitch Zeller, head of the Center for Tobacco Products at the FDA,
shortly after the ruling was released.
Resource:http://www.parentherald.com/articles/42330/20160510/premium-cigar-makers-cry-foul-over-new-fda-ruling-tobacco.htm
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