The Regulation of Vaping Products

The episode discusses ongoing Supreme Court cases that concern the regulation of flavored vaping products, primarily targeting an epidemic among teenagers. Companies argue that fruit-flavored vapes help adult smokers transition away from traditional cigarettes, yet the FDA expresses concern that these appealing flavors attract minors, potentially leading to nicotine addiction. In recent developments, the FDA denied applications for flavored vaping products, stating that the companies failed to demonstrate that the benefits for adult smokers outweigh the risks posed to youth. The Fifth Circuit Court sided with the companies, suggesting the FDA's guideline shifts were arbitrary and capricious, raising essential legal questions about agency authority in public health issues.