Calling tobacco product candy is misleading

Regarding The Gazette April 30 editorial about test marketing by R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. of dissolvable tobacco products in the form of sticks, strips and orbs: These smokeless tobacco products were developed because adult tobacco consumers want options that meet societal expectations - no secondhand smoke, no spitting and no cigarette butt litter.

Currently on sale in test markets, their sale is age-restricted. They carry the same health warnings as smokeless tobacco products, and their packaging is child-resistant.

Referring to these products as “candy” irresponsibly perpetuates false and misleading information. If minors hear these products referred to as “candy,” they are more likely to try to get them. A better approach is to make sure everyone knows these are tobacco products that carry risks and should only be used by adult tobacco consumers who have made an informed decision.

While we agree these products should not be banned by local authorities, we disagree with your objection to buy-one-get-one-free retail promotions and a sampling ban. Retail promotions are available only to adult tobacco consumers, and sampling of smokeless tobacco products is already restricted to those of legal age under federal law.

John Singleton

Director,

Communications

Reynolds American Services Company