For Retailers

The retail community plays a direct role in helping us protect kids from tobacco. By complying with federal tobacco regulations, you are following the law and helping to break the chain of tobacco addiction. Information about federal tobacco regulations are provided below. Retailers are also responsible for following state
tobacco laws. Visit your state tobacco control Web site for further details. 

 

Regulations Restricting the Sale and Distribution of Cigarettes and Smokeless Tobacco

On June 22, 2010 a series of regulations went into effect that restrict the sale, distribution, and promotion of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products to make them less accessible and less attractive to kids.  Among other things, the regulations require that retailers:

• check identification of all individuals who are under age 27
• not sell cigarettes or smokeless tobacco to anyone younger than age 18
• sell cigarettes or smokeless tobacco only in a direct, face-to-face exchange, except in adult-only facilities
• not break open any cigarette or smokeless tobacco package to sell products in smaller quantities
• remove any promotional items in the retail environment that violate the regulations, such as self-service displays and certain advertising and labeling
• not sell cigarettes with certain characterizing flavors

• Draft Guidance for Industry: Tobacco Retailer Training Programs 
• Draft Guidance for Industry: Compliance with Regulations Restricting the Sale and Distribution of Cigarettes and Smokeless Tobacco To Protect Children and Adolescents 

 

Light, Low, or Mild or Similar Descriptors

Starting June 22, 2010, the law prohibits manufacturers from producing any tobacco products labeled or advertised as “light,” “low,” “mild,” or similar descriptors.  As of July 22, manufacturers may not distribute for sale any of these products.  These new legal restrictions apply only to manufacturers; they do not prohibit retailers from selling tobacco products with the descriptors “light,” “low,” “mild,” or similar descriptors that were manufactured before June 22, 2010. 

While the law permits retailers to continue selling these products, FDA is concerned that keeping these products on the market for an extended period of time is not in the interest of public health. Although many smokers who use “light” cigarettes believe that these products are less harmful and easier to quit, studies have shown that they present no less health risks than other cigarettes.

• Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff: Use of “Light,” “Mild,” “Low,” or Similar Descriptors in the Label, Labeling, or Advertising of Tobacco Products
• Letter to Retailers (In Spanish) (In Korean)
• More information on light, Low, Mild or Similar Descriptors
• Listen to the PSA: Put Out the Myth, There Is No Such Thing as a Safe Cigarette  

Stay informed and check back often as we will continue to update this section of the Web site to provide helpful resources.