US authorizes Juul to sell vaping products

Juul Labs Secures FDA Approval to Continue Selling Its Vaping Products in the United States

On Thursday, Juul Labs announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had formally authorized the e‑cigarette manufacturer to market its vaping system and refill capsules nationwide.

Key Details of the FDA Decision

• The MGO (Marketing Grading Order) now applies to five Juul products, including the standard device and capsules for the “Virginia Tobacco” and menthol flavors, each available in 3 % and 5 % nicotine concentrations.
• Juul’s authorization follows the submission of over 110 scientific studies and rigorous data analysis conducted by the agency.
• The agency emphasized that the approval “is appropriate for the protection of public health,” the statutory standard for authorization.

Juul’s Public Health Position

Juul maintains that its vaping products offer a public health advantage by encouraging smokers to transition away from combustible tobacco products, which are closely linked to fatal illnesses. The company argues that the health benefits of switching to a potentially lesser‑harmful, nicotine‑based product outweigh the risks for all users, including those who have never used tobacco.

Background on Juul’s Marketing Settlement

In 2022, Juul agreed to pay a settlement of $438.5 million in a lawsuit involving 34 U.S. states, which accused the company of targeting underage smokers. The settlement resolved allegations of aggressive marketing practices aimed at youth.

FDA’s Monitoring and Compliance Commitment

While Juul receives this authorization, the FDA will continue to monitor the company’s adherence to restrictions on marketing to younger audiences. The agency clarified that the products are not “safe” and are not “FDA approved” in the traditional sense, and that ongoing compliance will be scrutinized.

Implications of the Recent FDA Actions

Juul survived a challenging period after the FDA ordered it to halt sales in June 2022 over health concerns, although the decision was later administratively suspended. In June 2024, the FDA formally rescinded the June 2022 order, placing the issue back into a “pending” status while a substantive review continued.

Juul’s spokesperson confirmed that the Thursday FDA action “confirms that these products are now authorized to remain on the market.”