WASHINGTON: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed a landmark rule to cap nicotine levels in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products, making them minimally or nonaddictive. This unprecedented move aims to reduce tobacco-related diseases and prevent smoking initiation among millions of young people.
The proposed rule suggests limiting nicotine to 0.7 milligrams per gram of tobacco—significantly lower than current levels. If finalized, the regulation would apply to cigarettes, roll-your-own tobacco, most cigars, and pipe tobacco, but would exclude e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and premium cigars.
Scientific evidence indicates that lower nicotine levels can significantly reduce addiction without leading smokers to compensate by consuming more. The FDA estimates that by 2100, the proposed rule could prevent 48 million young people from starting smoking, help 19.5 million smokers quit within five years, and avert over 4.3 million tobacco-related deaths.
The FDA encourages public input on the proposal, including feedback on the nicotine cap, compliance timelines, and potential illicit trade implications. Comments will be accepted through September 15, 2025, as the agency seeks to shape a healthier future by reducing the toll of tobacco use.