FDA issues warnings to online retailers making 'unsubstantiated claims' about tobacco products

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration sent 11 warning letters last week to online retailers selling tobacco products that claimed to reduce the harm and risk of tobacco-related disease.

The FDA said Wednesday that the retailers had illegally marketed tobacco products that used such terms as “light,” “low,” “mild,” “less toxic” and “safer” — terms that the agency deems misleading and unsubstantiated.

“There is no known safe tobacco product,” FDA Center for Tobacco Products director Lawrence Deyton said. “It is illegal for tobacco companies or retailers, including Internet sellers, to make unsubstantiated claims or statements that imply tobacco products reduce health risks.”