3 Maryland Stores Sell Tobacco Products to Youths: FDA

WASHINGTON, DC — Three Maryland retailers received a warning letter from federal officials for allegedly selling tobacco products to underage buyers.

The Food and Drug Administration says 55 retailers nationwide — including major chains like Exxon, BP, Walgreens and 7-Eleven — were among the businesses that reportedly sold e-cigarettes, e-liquids and cigars to minors.

The retailers are:

• BP, 5320 York Road in Baltimore, which sold Black & Mild Cigars
• Exxon, 971 Quince Orchard Road in Gaithersburg, which sold Black & Mild Jazz Cigars
• Pratt Liquor & Bar, 1812 W. Pratt St. in Baltimore, which sold Black & Mild Cigars

“E-cigarette and hookah use by youth continues to rise dramatically, and cigar use remains high,” the agency said in a news release. “To protect kids from a lifetime of nicotine addiction, FDA has taken steps to restrict youth access to all tobacco products.”

Underage buyers purchased some of these newly regulated tobacco products in a variety of flavors that appeal to youth, including bubble gum, cotton candy, and gummy bear.

The FDA says it issues warning letters to traditional “brick and mortar” retail stores the first time a tobacco compliance check reveals a violation of the federal tobacco laws and regulations. Failure to promptly and adequately correct all violations may lead to fines or a suspension of tobacco sales.

Image: Stephen Griffiths, via Flickr