Public Health Impacts of Flavored Tobacco

Flavored tobacco product is any tobacco product that imparts a cooling sensation, numbing sensation, taste, or smell, other than the taste or smell of tobacco, that is distinguishable by an ordinary consumer either prior to or during the consumption of a tobacco product. These include, but not limited to, any taste or smell relating to fruit, menthol, mint, wintergreen, chocolate, cocoa, vanilla, honey, or any candy, dessert, alcoholic beverage, herb, or spice.

Flavored tobacco products pose serious public health risks, particularly for youth and communities already facing health inequities.

Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, Colorado, and Denver, where nearly 1 in 10 high school students report using tobacco products. Flavors play a major role in youth initiation—more than 70% of youth who vape say flavors are a key reason they use these products. By masking the harshness of nicotine, flavors make it easier to start and harder to quit, increasing the likelihood of long-term addiction. This is especially concerning because about 95% of adult smokers began using tobacco before age 21, and youth who vape are four times more likely to smoke cigarettes within a year.

Nicotine exposure also harms developing brains, affecting mood, memory, concentration, and self-control, and can worsen anxiety or depression, creating a cycle that keeps young people dependent on nicotine.

Flavored tobacco products also contribute to persistent health inequities. The tobacco industry has a long history of targeting young people, Black and Latino communities, women, and LGBTQ+ populations through predatory marketing, particularly for menthol products. Menthol cigarettes are disproportionately used by African Americans and are associated with higher rates of tobacco-related disease and death. These impacts extend beyond individual health, increasing preventable illness, premature death, and long-term strain on families and communities.

No. On Dec. 18, 2024, Mayor Mike Johnston signed Bill 24-1765 into law, which prohibits the sale of flavored tobacco products within the City and County of Denver.

Are you a retailer that wants to learn more about the ban? Find our flavor ban FAQ online.