The U.S. FDA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently announced the seizure of $76 million worth of unauthorized e-cigarettes, totaling about 3 million units. The agencies collaborated on a July joint operation aimed at inspecting incoming shipments and preventing the illegal e-cigarettes from entering the country. FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf emphasized the importance of stopping unauthorized e-cigarettes from reaching children and highlighted the newly formed federal task force dedicated to combating illegal activity in this area.
In response to the growing issue of unauthorized e-cigarettes, the FDA and Department of Justice established a joint federal task force in June to address the distribution and sale of illegal vaping products. Prior to the recent seizure, the FDA had issued warning letters to online retailers selling unauthorized e-cigarette items under specific brand names.
The unauthorized e-cigarettes were identified as misbranded products originating from China and were falsely labeled as legitimate vaping products from known brands. This deceptive tactic was used to avoid detection and evade import duties. The seized products will be disposed of in accordance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection authorities.
Overall, the federal agencies are committed to cracking down on the illegal sale and distribution of e-cigarettes, with the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products director, Brian King, emphasizing that those involved in smuggling illegal e-cigarettes should instead focus on complying with the law. The joint efforts of the FDA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection aim to protect American consumers from harmful and unauthorized vaping products.
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