Bret Koplow signals more FDA authorizations for lower-risk tobacco alternatives
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · May 10
Bret Koplow signals more FDA authorizations for lower-risk tobacco alternatives
7 articles · Updated · POLITICO · May 10
Speaking at the Food and Drug Law Institute conference in Washington, the acting Center for Tobacco Products director said authorised options now span nearly all noncombustible tobacco categories.
Koplow said fruit-flavoured vapes with age-gating could help adult smokers switch from combustible products, while stressing harm reduction applies only to adults able to make informed choices.
His remarks come amid criticism from public health groups, which warn flavoured products could attract youth and say recent FDA decisions risk undermining efforts to prevent nicotine addiction.
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FDA Approves 45 E-Cigarette Products Including First Fruit Flavors for Adults: A New Era in Tobacco Harm Reduction and Regulation
Overview
In May 2026, the FDA authorized the first fruit-flavored e-cigarettes for adult use, marking a major shift in its tobacco regulation. This decision followed intensified lobbying from the tobacco industry and growing political pressure to expand market options. The FDA’s evolving harm reduction strategy aims to offer adult smokers less harmful alternatives, while still warning that all tobacco products are addictive and dangerous. With over 25 million Americans still smoking, the FDA has now approved 45 e-cigarette products, including four Glas devices, but maintains strict marketing rules to prevent youth exposure and protect public health.