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Menthol cigarettes will be banned in the UK under new smoking laws coming into play next month.
The ban, which will affect menthol cigarettes, menthol rolls, skinny cigarettes and double-click cigarettes, is the culmination of a four-year phase-out period under the laws of the EU Tobacco Products Directive. .
While flavored cigarettes are currently restricted to packs of 20, they will be banned entirely from May 20.
The charity ASH (Action on Smoking and Health) said the ban will stop the production and sale of any filter, paper, packaging, capsule or other component containing flavoring in cigarettes and hand-rolled tobacco.
It also extends to “technical characteristics” that would allow consumers to modify the “smell, taste, or smoke intensity” of the product.
ASH’s Amanda Sandford said increasing the price of cigarettes and stopping the sale of smaller packages has made smoking less attractive.
He added that banning menthol cigarettes could discourage younger people from smoking, saying: “It is naturally difficult to inhale smoke and for many the first time they smoke it it is disgusting, but people persevere and that is when they become addicted.”
“There is evidence that menthol cigarettes relax the airways and the taste hides the harshness of the smoke, making it easier for younger people to smoke.
“However, it is an absolute myth that menthol cigarettes are better for you.
“All cigarettes are harmful, and menthol cigarettes are just as dangerous as regular cigarettes.”
According to the NHS, while menthol itself is not addictive, it can increase nicotine addiction.
He explained: “Menthol is an additive that increases nicotine addiction, although menthol alone is not addictive in nature.
“Menthol is a mild anesthetic that numbs the throat and stimulates cold receptors that create a refreshing sensation.”
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