Time: 2023-08-19
Views: 427
According to WCTV's report on August 18th, Florida in the United States is gradually becoming an illegal dumping ground for illegal e-cigarette products, possibly mixed with fentanyl. State governments and business leaders urgently request assistance from the federal government to address this issue.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings to multiple stores selling unapproved disposable e-cigarettes. Many businesses in Florida, adjacent to 15 ports, have received this warning, which has raised the alarm of the Florida Ports Commission.
Mike Rubin, Chairman of the Florida Ports Commission, said, "I think we have witnessed a surge in illegal products throughout the state." Rubin has written to the FDA requesting assistance in blocking these illegal products outside of the state.
The Florida Retail Federation pointed out that compared to the national average, there are more people purchasing disposable e-cigarette devices here, with an annual consumption of approximately $363 million, which is 20% higher.
Although most e-cigarette products come from China, people are concerned that some of them may be doped with fentanyl. The FDA has recently ordered the seizure of some illegal e-cigarette shipments at the port. Rubin said, "We hope to intercept those illegally entering goods at the port, and we are also committed to dealing with goods imported from outside Florida ports
These e-cigarette products typically offer different flavors, which regulatory agencies point out may attract teenagers. The Florida Department of Commerce and Occupational Regulation is responsible for investigating illegal product issues.
The department revealed that they have discovered illegal e-cigarette products throughout the state and are working with other agencies to combat this issue.
Scott Charley, CEO of the Florida Retail Federation, said, "We are working hard to provide retailers with as much information as possible, but to be honest, this information is currently relatively new and quite limited
Although electronic cigarette shops near Talahassee are unwilling to make a public statement, their owners have stated that by collaborating with reputable distributors, they have ensured the safety of their products.
However, even so, this may still be a challenge. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention pointed out that the number of brands increased from 184 in 2020 to 269 in 2022.
Xia Li expressed the hope that the FDA can provide assistance. He said, "We look forward to the FDA issuing more guidance and providing more clear information on tested products
The Florida Department of Commerce and Occupational Regulation encourages anyone who is aware of the sale of illegal e-cigarette products to contact the FDA.
Since 2019, the US Customs and Border Protection Agency has publicly acknowledged the seizure of 13 cases of illegal e-cigarette products, all of which come from China.