The Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee (TPSAC) of the United States’ Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in early February overwhelmingly concluded that the Altria Group’s U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company’s (USSTC) proposed modified risk claim – “If You Smoke, Consider This: Switching completely to this product from cigarettes reduces risk of lung cancer” – for Copenhagen Snuff Fine Cut is scientifically accurate. Copenhagen Snuff Fine Cut is a moist smokeless tobacco product manufactured by USSTC.
Following a hearing at which USSTC presented extensive scientific evidence, eight members of the TPSAC voted that the scientific evidence supported the proposed claim. One TPSAC member had abstained from voting.
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“This is an important step for tobacco harm reduction,” said Joe Murillo, senior vice president of regulatory affairs for Altria Client Services. “It is critical that adult smokers have accurate information that will help them switch to non-combustible tobacco products.”
However, TPSAC recommendations and votes are non-binding, and the FDA will continue reviewing USSTC’s Modified Risk Tobacco Product (MRTP) application. The FDA’s final decision will take into account the body of scientific evidence and comments, data, and information submitted by qualified third-parties. If passed, Copenhagen Snuff Fine Cut would be the world’s first officially recognized MRTP.