E-cigarettes contain toxic chemicals, FDA says

updated 4:11 p.m. ET July 22, 2009

WASHINGTON - Federal health officials said Wednesday they have found cancer-causing ingredients in electronic cigarettes, despite manufacturers' claims the products are safer than tobacco cigarettes.

The Food and Drug Administration said testing of products from two leading electronic cigarette makers turned up several toxic chemicals, including a key ingredient in antifreeze. FDA scientists said they tested 19 varieties of cigarettes, many of which contained fruit and candy flavors.

Public health advocates have complained the products are marketed toward young people and can serve as a "gateway" to tobacco smoking. Because electronic cigarettes are not covered by federal tobacco laws, they are often easier for young people to purchase.

Electronic cigarettes produce a nicotine mist absorbed directly into the lungs. Most can easily pass as a tobacco cigarette with slim white bodies and glowing amber tips. They even emit what look like puffs of white smoke.

Slideshow   Smoke screen? A Chinese company is marketing its smokeless, electronic cigarettes as a safe alternative to smoking and an effective tool in helping smokers kick the habit. But world health officials say the manufacturer can’t back up those claims. more photos

Manufacturers have touted the products as a healthier alternative to smoking because no burning is involved, and there's no hazardous cocktail of cancer-causing chemicals.

Regulators said they already halted 50 shipments of electronic cigarettes at the border, but those actions have been challenged in federal court by manufacturers. The products are made primarily in China.

FDA officials declined to comment on whether they would take action against the two manufacturers whose products were tested. They also declined to identify the companies.

The agency did say it's "planning additional activities" to address safety issues with the products, which may include recalling products or issuing criminal sanctions.

MORE FROM ADDICTIONS

Addictions Section Front

‘Cannabis Cafe’ opens for medical pot patients FDA questions alcoholic energy drinks’ safety U.S. adult smoking rate rises slightly Expanded drug treatment: Will U.S. step up? Smoking bans do protect nonsmokers' hearts ‘Red watch’ friends don't let pals drink and die Vaccine for cocaine habit? May be coming soon Half of treated addicts kick habit after 6 months Prescriptions for narcotics up in Ky. Methadone deaths jump sharply in recent years Addictions Section Front   Add Addictions headlines to your news reader: