Menthol is a compound found naturally in peppermint and similar plants, but it can also be made synthetically. In tobacco products like cigarettes, menthol produces a cooling sensation in the throat and lungs, which reduces the harshness of the smoke and makes it easier to inhale—an effect that can increase the likelihood of addiction. Menthol is not limited to cigarettes; it’s also found in e-cigarettes, cigars, hookah, smokeless tobacco, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco products. While federal law bans most flavored cigarettes, menthol remains an exception. Nearly all cigarettes sold in the U.S. contain some amount of menthol, but those labeled “menthol” typically contain higher concentrations. In 2021, menthol cigarettes made up 37% of all cigarette sales—the highest level recorded since federal reporting began in 1963.
Key Facts About Menthol in Tobacco Products:
- Menthol masks harshness:
Tobacco companies add menthol to make tobacco products feel smoother and more appealing, especially to young people and first-time users. - Menthol increases addiction risk:
Menthol enhances nicotine’s effects on the brain, making tobacco products even more addictive. Some menthol cigarettes now contain higher levels of nicotine. - Menthol makes quitting harder:
People who smoke menthol cigarettes are generally less likely to successfully quit compared to those who smoke non-menthol cigarettes. - Targeted marketing:
Tobacco companies aggressively market menthol products to specific groups, particularly Black communities. - Disproportionate impact:
Higher rates of menthol cigarette use are found among:- Young people
- Racial and ethnic minorities
- LGBTQ+ individuals
- Women
- People with low income
- People with mental health conditions
- Solutions for reducing menthol use:
- Increase access to quitting resources like counseling and medications
- Implement policies to restrict or reduce menthol tobacco product sales
As menthol continues to dominate the flavored cigarette market, public health experts warn that its smooth and cooling properties can mask the dangers of smoking, especially for new users. Understanding the role of menthol in tobacco products is essential for communities and policymakers working to reduce smoking rates and protect public health—especially among youth and communities disproportionately targeted by menthol marketing.
Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/menthol-tobacco/index.html
