FDA Approves Menthol Vapes: A Major Step for the Vaping Industry

FDA Approves NJOY Menthol Vapes: A Major Step for the Vaping Industry

On June 21, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) dropped some big news for the vaping world: four menthol e-cigarette products from NJOY brand received official Premarket Tobacco Application (PMTA) authorization. These products include:

• NJOY ACE Pod Menthol 2.4%
• NJOY ACE Pod Menthol 5%
• NJOY DAILY Menthol 4.5%
• NJOY DAILY EXTRA Menthol 6%

This is a significant moment for both menthol vapes and the vaping industry as a whole, as it marks the first time that the FDA has granted approval to menthol-flavored e-cigarettes. For years, the FDA has been mainly focused on tobacco-flavored products, but this decision opens the door for more flavor varieties to be approved moving forward.

Let’s break this down. The NJOY ACE Pod Menthol products come in two different nicotine strengths, offering flexibility to users who prefer menthol and want to control their nicotine intake. These are designed for use with the NJOY ACE pod system, which allows for easy replacement of pods. Meanwhile, the NJOY DAILY and NJOY DAILY EXTRA are disposable e-cigarettes that come in higher nicotine strengths of 4.5% and 6%, respectively. These offer convenience and ease for those who don’t want to deal with refilling or maintaining pods.

This brings the total number of PMTA-approved e-cigarette products to 27. However, it’s important to note that these 27 products are all from major tobacco companies. While this approval is a major step forward, most of these products don’t have much of a presence in retail stores, highlighting the dominance of big tobacco in the current market. But what does this approval really mean for the vaping industry, and how might it impact consumers and the regulatory landscape?

A Game-Changer for Menthol Vapes

The approval of menthol vapes by the FDA has a couple of very important implications. First, it’s the first PMTA approval for vapes in 742 days. The last approval came back in June 2022, when the FDA granted permission for two NJOY DAILY tobacco-flavored disposable vapes. This means that, after more than two years of stagnation, the FDA is finally moving forward with the process of approving more vaping products.

But what’s even more groundbreaking is that menthol vapes have now been recognized as safe by the FDA, marking the first time that a non-tobacco flavor has been given PMTA approval. Up until now, the FDA’s PMTA process has been focused almost exclusively on tobacco-flavored products. This approval signifies that menthol has broken through as a viable flavor option, potentially paving the way for other non-tobacco flavors like fruit, dessert, and candy to receive approval in the future.

What’s more interesting is that, in a previous decision, the FDA rejected the application for blu menthol vapes back in February 2024, showing that the regulatory body had been initially hesitant about approving menthol products. The reversal of this stance, however, signals that the agency is perhaps rethinking its approach to flavor regulations.

Why Did the FDA Approve Menthol Now?

If you’re wondering why the FDA chose this moment to approve menthol, there are two main reasons that could explain the shift in policy:

1. The FDA’s Internal Process Has Finally Gained Momentum
   The FDA has faced immense challenges in reviewing the flood of PMTA applications over the past several years. There have been staffing changes, shifts in leadership, and difficulties in processing thousands of applications. As a result, the approval process for new vapes has been delayed, with a lack of clarity on the agency’s long-term vision for vaping regulation. But with the approval of menthol vapes, it seems the FDA has now streamlined its internal processes, allowing it to finally push forward with more approvals.

Earlier this year, I wrote about how the FDA had been struggling to get its act together in terms of vape regulation. In fact, it had been so bogged down by the volume of applications that it failed to approve new products for over two years. The approval of menthol products could be the result of growing pressure from industry stakeholders and consumers who felt that the FDA was dragging its feet.

2. Political Pressure and Growing Regulatory Challenges
   On the political front, the FDA has been facing mounting pressure from both sides. There are those who argue that the FDA isn’t doing enough to regulate vaping products, leading to a rise in non-PMTA-approved products flooding the market. At the same time, there’s been pushback from Big Tobacco—the major players in the vaping industry—who are eager to protect their market share.

In late 2023, several states began to bypass the FDA’s process altogether, pushing for state-level enforcement of vaping regulations. This shift has been driven by frustration with the slow pace of the FDA’s approval process and the increasing popularity of unregulated, non-PMTA-approved products. The introduction of the PMTA Registration Act was one such effort to sidestep the FDA’s authority. It would allow states to enforce vaping rules without waiting for the FDA to approve products, which, in the long run, could protect the market dominance of Big Tobacco.

For more insight into these legislative changes, be sure to check out our blog on the Huge Market for disposable vapes and the impact of state laws on the vaping landscape.

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

The approval of menthol-flavored vapes has significant implications for consumers. It means that there will be more choices available to those who enjoy menthol vapes. For years, menthol has been one of the most popular cigarette flavors in the U.S., so it’s no surprise that many vapers have been clamoring for menthol vapes. The FDA’s decision now opens the door for more products to follow.

Disposables like the NJOY DAILY EXTRA Menthol and other similar devices are expected to surge in popularity. Disposable vapes have become incredibly popular in recent years due to their ease of use. You don’t have to worry about refilling tanks or cleaning coils, making them perfect for people on the go.

For an example of some of the best Snoopy Smoke vape flavors, including menthol, check out our collection of amazing options on our website. Whether you’re new to vaping or a seasoned pro, you’ll find something to suit your taste. And if you’re looking for a high-quality disposable vape, consider trying out the Snoopy Smoke Extra Tank for a smooth and flavorful experience.

The Growing Appeal of Disposable Vape

There’s no denying that disposable vapes are one of the most popular trends in the vaping industry right now. Their convenience and user-friendly design make them ideal for anyone who wants a hassle-free vaping experience. Unlike traditional vapes that require maintenance, refilling, and coil replacements, disposables like the NJOY DAILY are a simple, one-and-done solution.

In addition to ease of use, disposable vapes are often praised for their portability. Whether you’re traveling, at work, or just relaxing at home, disposables can easily be slipped into your pocket and used whenever you need them. For more disposable options, be sure to check out the Snoopy Smoke Extra Tank, a top choice for those looking for a sleek, easy-to-carry device.

The Bigger Picture: The Battle Over Flavors

One of the most contentious issues in the vaping industry today is the ban on flavored e-cigarettes. As more states push for flavor bans, the debate continues to rage. Advocates of flavor bans argue that flavors like menthol, fruit, and dessert make e-cigarettes more appealing to young people, potentially leading to nicotine addiction. On the other hand, proponents of flavored vapes argue that flavors help adult smokers transition away from traditional cigarettes, offering a less harmful alternative.

To learn more about the flavor ban debate, check out our detailed post on Ban Flavors Vapes, where we explore recent efforts in states like Indiana to impose restrictions on flavored products.

The Future of Vaping: What’s Next?

Looking ahead, the vaping industry is poised for exciting developments. With more products gaining FDA approval, we’re likely to see a wide range of new flavors hit the market. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that both menthol and disposable vapes will remain popular choices for consumers who want an alternative to traditional smoking.

If you’re ready to experience the best in vaping, be sure to explore our selection of Snoopy Smoke vape flavors and check out the innovative Snoopy Smoke Extra Tank for a satisfying and flavorful experience. You won’t regret it.

Conclusion: A New Era for Menthol E-Cigarettes

In conclusion, the FDA’s approval of menthol e-cigarettes represents a major turning point for the vaping industry. The decision not only paves the way for more products to be approved but also signals a shift toward greater acceptance of flavored vapes. While there’s still a long road ahead in terms of full market integration, this decision is undoubtedly a win for both consumers and industry stakeholders.

As the vaping community celebrates this victory, we’re sure to see more innovations and options for vapers in the months to come.