A recent study has shed light on a concerning trend in the world of e-cigarettes, particularly those marketed towards young people. The study, published in JAMA, revealed the presence of a super-sweet chemical called neotame in various flavored vapes sold in the United States. Neotame, which is up to 13,000 times sweeter than sugar, is typically used in products like ice cream and lip gloss. However, it is now being found in popular disposable vapes, including brands such as Elf Bar, Breeze, and Mr. Fog.
What makes the presence of neotame in these flavored vapes especially troubling is its appeal to children and teens. Research has shown that young people are more drawn to sweet tastes than adults, making neotame a significant factor in the attractiveness of these products. The Truth Initiative, an anti-tobacco nonprofit, reported that flavored vapes make up a staggering 86% of e-cigarette retail sales in the U.S. Unfortunately, many of these products are illegal and are still widely available in gas stations, stores, and online.
The study did not find neotame in e-cigarettes authorized by the FDA, nor in Juul, which is awaiting FDA approval. This underscores the need for stricter regulations and oversight in the e-cigarette industry, especially when it comes to products that appeal to young people. The Supreme Court recently supported the FDA’s decision not to authorize flavored vapes, citing their potential harm to adolescents.
One of the major concerns raised by experts is the lack of information on the safety of inhaling sweeteners like neotame. While neotame is FDA-approved for use in food products, its safety when inhaled into the lungs is unknown. This raises questions about the potential health risks associated with using flavored vapes, especially for young people whose developing brains may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of nicotine.
In conclusion, the presence of neotame in flavored vapes marketed to teens is a cause for concern. As more research is conducted on the safety of sweeteners in e-cigarettes, it is crucial for regulatory bodies like the FDA to enforce stricter rules and ensure that only products meeting safety standards are authorized for sale. The health and well-being of young people should be a top priority in the ongoing efforts to combat the rise of e-cigarette use among adolescents.
