Flavored Poison for Kids: Tobacco Mints
A new research suggests that flavored tobacco products are becoming a cause of accidental poisoning among children as young as 6 year old.
The author of the journal Pediatrics wrote that a variety of tobacco products are now a major threat for the health of kids as their candy like look, different kinds of forms and added flavors are attracting them. As per the journal, about 1,800 youngsters accidentally ingested these flavored tobacco products between the year 2006 and 2008.
Cathryn Cushing the spokesperson for the Oregon Tobacco Prevention & Education Program showed a strong feeling against tobacco mints and said that the tobacco company owners are trying to make up for the loss of their second hand smoke battle.
But the spokesman for R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, which makes Orbs and also along Camel Strips and Camel Sticks denied these charges. Director of communications David P. Howard, , defended the firm and said that it is only trying to offer an alternative for those who want to enjoy tobacco without violating laws or social norms. The product has many advantages being smokeless and spitless and litter free, he added.
Alfred Aleguas Jr., managing director of the Northern Ohio Poison Center and co-author of the Pediatrics study is not convinced at all. A single Orb, which contains about 1 milligram of nicotine, can sicken a small child and a handful could be lethal, he said.
