From tomorrow cigarettes are banned, with flavours such as Menthol in the European Union. The EU tobacco products Directive in 2014 provides. The aim is to reduce the Smoking rates of young people.

20. In may 2020, the four-year transition period of the EU tobacco Directive adopted by the European Parliament ends. This means that starting tomorrow, all cigarettes and tobacco products with characterising flavours, such as Menthol or vanilla, no more can be sold. Part of this Directive is, among other things, that two-thirds of the front and back of cigarette packs for educational warnings and easy-to-remember photos must be reserved to the consequences of tobacco consumption.

These measures are intended to primarily serve young people from starting to smoke. The Directive States that flavourings may facilitate the initiation of tobacco use. Certain flavors such as Menthol may also awaken the false impression to have health Benefits or less risks for the health.

In the European Union, approximately 700 000 people die annually from the consequences of tobacco use. Around half of smokers die prematurely, and most of them live many years in poor health. You have to develop also an increased risk of cancer, respiratory, cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

NK