Study: Menthol cigarillos undermine efforts to curb smoking

Researchers from the University of Bath[1] claim that the introduction of cigarette-like menthol cigarillos onto the UK market is helping big tobacco companies circumvent strict public health measures aimed at reducing smoking.

The study results show that these products target cigarette smokers. In January 2020, Japan Tobacco International (JTI) launched “ Sterling Dual Capsule Leaf Wrapped ", officially sold as cigarillos but resembling cigarettes previously sold by the same company and with the same brand name. Other tobacco companies – Imperial and Scandinavian Tobacco Group – have since launched similar products. In March 2020, a pack of 10 cigarillos sold for £4.60 (£0.46 each), less than half the price of a pack of 20 Sterling Dual Capsule cigarettes (£10.95 - £0.55 each). The authors of the study say the low purchase price increases its appeal to consumers, particularly poorer smokers and young people.

Dr Rosemary Hiscock of the Tobacco Control Research Group at the University of Bath said: " Although cigarillos must carry large health warnings, they are still sold in colourful packaging, in packs of 10 (which makes them more accessible because they are cheaper). They can have flavours such as menthol. Future legislation will have to extend the existing rules for cigarettes to all other tobacco products and accessories. »

Dr Rob Branston, lead author of the study from the University of Bath's School of Management, said: “Currently, the UK cigarillo market is relatively small, but it could grow rapidly given industry efforts to market these products as a new, cheaper alternative. This should be a wake-up call to all of us, given that the health consequences of a cigarillo are broadly the same as those of a cigarette. To address this, the UK should consider a range of measures, including urgent tax alignment.”

Keywords: Menthol, cigarillos, taxation, United Kingdom