Cracking Down on Tobacco Flavors

The amendment to the Tobacco and Electronic Smoking Device Sales and Access Act Regulations, introduces significant updates to improve tobacco control measures in Prince Edward Island. Enacted under section 9 of the Act, the changes address the definition of prescribed flavouring agents, limit nicotine concentrations in electronic smoking devices, and update regulatory schedules for compliance.
Section 1 amends section 1.1 of the Tobacco and Electronic Smoking Device Sales and Access Act Regulations (EC538/15) to clarify which agents are deemed prescribed flavouring agents under the Act. These include any substance added to tobacco or electronic smoking devices to produce an aroma or taste other than tobacco, such as those mimicking desserts, soft drinks, spices, alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, herbs, candy, cannabis, chocolate, fruit, menthol, cooling agents, or vanilla. By targeting these flavors, the amendment aims to reduce the appeal of such products to youth and deter recreational use. Additionally, this section establishes a maximum permitted nicotine concentration of 20 mg/mL for electronic smoking devices, a measure designed to mitigate nicotine addiction and align with harm-reduction strategies.
Section 2 revokes and replaces Schedules A, B, C, and C.1 of the regulations. These updated schedules outline the new versions of signs that must be displayed in places where tobacco is sold, ensuring clear communication of regulatory requirements to both sellers and consumers. This revision supports the broader goal of reinforcing public awareness and compliance with tobacco-related regulations.
The amendments reflect the provincial government’s aim to protect the public’s health by addressing the risks associated with tobacco and electronic smoking devices. By restricting enticing flavors, limiting nicotine concentrations, and enhancing compliance measures, these changes aim to reduce the prevalence of tobacco use, particularly among youth and other vulnerable groups. The updated regulations represent an active approach to tobacco control, aligning Prince Edward Island’s policies with contemporary public health priorities.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, vaping poses serious health risks, including lung damage, breathing problems, addiction, and harm to other organs. While often perceived as safer than smoking, vaping is not safe. It can worsen or trigger asthma and cause permanent lung scarring from chemicals like diacetyl, leading to conditions such as “popcorn lung.” Nicotine and other substances in e-liquids damage the heart and brain, with nicotine impairing brain development and increasing blood pressure. Vaping can result in EVALI, a severe lung condition that may be fatal, and many users transition to smoking cigarettes, which are even more harmful. Second-hand exposure to vaping releases harmful chemicals, and device malfunctions have caused burns and injuries. Additionally, some e-liquid ingredients are known carcinogens, further heightening the health risks.
Prince Edward Island (EC2025-53) January 25, 2025