FDA WARNING_LETTER - www.cheapcigaretteswebsite.com

The FDA's Center for Tobacco Products issued a Warning Letter to the operator of http://www.cheapcigaretteswebsite.com after determining that cigarette products offered for sale to U.S. customers were adulterated. The website was found to be selling or distributing cigarettes described as "mild," "light," or using similar descriptors, such as "Marlboro Gold 100s" (described as "mild") and "Marlboro Red Shorts" (described as "mild").

Under section 911(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the FD&C Act, tobacco products with labels, labeling, or advertising using "light," "mild," "low," or similar descriptors are classified as "modified risk tobacco products." Section 911(a) prohibits the introduction or delivery of such products into interstate commerce without an FDA order. The sale of these products without the required FDA order renders them adulterated under section 902(8) of the FD&C Act.

The FDA requires immediate correction of these violations and any similar issues to ensure compliance with the FD&C Act and FDA regulations. Failure to comply may result in further actions, including civil money penalties, no-tobacco-sale orders, criminal prosecution, seizure, and/or injunction. Adulterated and misbranded tobacco products imported into the U.S. are also subject to detention and refusal of admission.

A written response detailing corrective actions, including dates