What does the FDA say about premium cigars?

In the aftermath of the FDA’s final deeming on the regulation of premium cigars many in the industry are now facing unprecedented changes. These new regulations are set to significantly shape the future of the premium cigar industry and stand to have a major impact on the consumer.

In the 499 page deeming regulations the FDA would require manufacturers to go through a certification procedure to demonstrate that their product is properly labeled and fits within the specifications that have been established for each type of product. It also requires manufacturers of products produced after Feb. 15, 2007 to register and submit their products for FDA approval, disclosing the ingredients, safety & emissions data, and manufacturing process. If they cannot prove the product is equivalent to existing product they will be ordered off the market. Cigars that were on the market prior to 2007, however, will be allowed to remain for sale. The deeming regulations also set the minimum smoking age at 18 as well as banning free samples of tobacco products.

Consumers who normally seek out new and exciting blends could find themselves waiting extended periods of time for new premium cigars and the ability to try a new premium blend before buying will become obsolete with the banning of free samples

Even though the future of premium cigars may seem grim at the moment the battle is not yet finished. Facing these sweeping changes set out by the FDA many members of the cigar industry are reaching out to congressional members to seek exemption from these new regulations. A lengthy and extensive appellate process is assured to ensue. This is certainly a time of change and innovation the effects of which will be felt for many years to come.

There are many speculations that arise with these new regulations and we would love to hear from you in the comments below.