Teenagers can face many challenges during their adolescent period. It may be hard to keep them away from adult temptations. Adults who are looking to quit traditional tobacco products can use vaping products as an alternative. Vaping and electronic cigarettes have been widely reported to reach the hands of underage users.
Tobacco Control Act places specific restrictions on marketing tobacco products to minors. The Tobacco Control Act also prohibits vending machines from selling tobacco products.
This blog post will show you different ways to say “#NO2MINORS”.
The Centers for Disease Control published a report in 2016 that stated nicotine exposure can negatively affect an adolescent’s brain. This type of report is useful in our efforts to keep tobacco products away from minors and move people out.
In the last ten years, vaping has grown to be a popular practice. There is still much to learn about this industry. There is plenty of information available to enforce #NO2MINORS.
Electronic nicotine delivery systems, or ENDS.
The FDA defines ENDS as non-combustible tobacco. Examples of ENDS are e-cigarettes, pipes, hookah pens, vape pens, and vaporizers. Federal law, retailer and business proactivity, and parental controls are all available resources to prevent minors from using ENDS.
FDA REGULATIONS
Let us dive into the Food and Drug Administration’s intervention.
Federal law prohibits the sale of e-cigarettes under 18 years old. The age limit varies from state to state as some conditions or regions may have a stricter age limit. In September 2018, the FDA issued 131 fines ranging between $279 and $11,182 to 1100 retailers for selling e-cigarettes to minors.
In an interview with The Washington Post in November 2018, FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb said, “Our goal is to ensure that no kid can get a fruity-flavored product at a convenience shop.” Vape shops and tobacco shops are expected to comply with these regulations. No restrictions are placed on mint or menthol flavors as these are less likely to attract minors.
Commissioner Gottlieb is adamant that electronic nicotine delivery devices and e-cigarettes can be helpful. In a November 2018 statement, he said that it may be an effective alternative to cigarettes for adult smokers who seek nicotine satisfaction without the harmful effects of combustion.
Teenage vaping is a problem that has grown so serious that new laws could be needed to protect minors from these products. It is important to let adults quit smoking while keeping teens away. Retailers and parents have the power to make a huge impact.
How Retailers Can Help
Businesses and retailers can curb the use of vaping by minors through strict compliance with state and federal laws regarding sales and marketing that are geared solely toward adults. Ruthless Vapor’s #NO2MINORS Campaign can be seen here: #NO2MINORS.
Since 2016, the FDA has enforced the rule that prohibits vape shops from giving free samples to their customers. The FDA holds all retailers to high standards by requiring them to check valid forms of identification before selling.
Juul Labs is one company that’s been scrutinized. Juul Labs, in an effort to support the anti-minority movement, has removed Mango, Fruits, Cucumbers, and Creme flavors. The website has a two-factor verification process that verifies the age of anyone purchasing online. Retailers in the vape market are focused on reducing minors’ access to fruit flavors.
While companies and retailers have a role to play, parents must also be aware of what happens in their homes.
How Parents and Guardians Can Help
It can be difficult to keep a close watch on your teenager. It’s a constant balance act that allows them to be independent while still requiring a certain level of obedience.
Vaping is now a part of the curriculum in middle and high schools. It is, therefore, important that parents are informed about the various types of electronic cigarettes. How they look and work.
Instead of becoming a detective at home, have an honest and open conversation with your children about electronic cigarettes and other products. Share information on the possible dangers and listen to your child’s experiences.
Listen to them without judging what they say about their experiences.
Here’s a list of signs related to vaping among teens:
- Increased thirst
- Wanting flavor/scents of flavors
- Nosebleeds
- Cutting back on caffeine
- Pneumonia
- Find USB drives or chargers that are unfamiliar
