Menthol cigarettes are banned following the introduction of new anti-smoking laws. Introduced on the 20th May it is now an offence for manufacturers to produce Menthol cigarettes and an offence for retailers to sell them.
The ban is part of a government drive to deter young people from taking up smoking, as they are thought to mistakenly believe the flavoured characteristic makes the habit less harmful.
The ban forms part of the new EU Tobacco Product Directive laws and supports existing UK laws which already make it illegal to sell Menthol cigarettes in packs of more than 20.
The change does not see the ban extended to Menthol filters, but it will be illegal to sell them packaged with cigarettes or tobacco.
Campaigners have welcomed the ban as Menthol cigarettes have long been viewed as a ‘child-friendly starter product’ as Menthol makes it easier to smoke and to inhale the smoke deep into the lungs.
Evidence has shown that Menthol smokers are also more likely to become heavily addicted and find it harder to quit.
Help is however at hand, Everyone Health in Bristol offer a free stop smoking service, all you have to do is call 0333 005 0095 or complete our referral form.
You will receive 12 weeks of sessions with a dedicated practitioner who’ll give you top tips on how to quit. They will prescribe the best nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products, including chewing gum, nasal sprays and patches to help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms and provide you with Free access to a smokefree App.
Banning Menthol cigarettes may be just the nudge you needed to quit for good.
