Washington: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has renewed licenses for the sale of five heated tobacco products, requiring them to communicate messages about reducing exposure to harmful substances.

According to Thai News Agency, the FDA conducted a thorough scientific review and is considering renewing the sales licenses for five modified risk tobacco products (MRTPs) from one manufacturer. These products can be sold with claims that users can reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals. The FDA emphasized that these heated tobacco products (HTPs) heat tobacco leaves without combusting them, significantly reducing the production of harmful chemicals.

The FDA's review found that new scientific evidence aligns with data reviewed during the initial MRTP application. This evidence supports the conclusion that HTP products reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and are expected to benefit public health. The FDA reiterated that scientific evidence indicates a significant reduction in morbidity or mortality for individual users switching from conventional cigarettes to HTPs.

Despite allowing the communication of "reduces exposure to harmful substances," companies are prohibited from making misleading claims suggesting FDA approval or endorsement of the product. The FDA stresses that no tobacco product is safe, advising non-smokers and non-users to avoid starting. The renewal requires post-sales monitoring and education, including assessments of user behavior and understanding of these reduced-risk products.