Companies like Swisher Sweets actively sponsor up-and-coming artists who appeal to younger people.
They also use tactics like free music downloads and pop-up concerts in convenience stores.
Some tobacco companies use trending social media hashtags to be part of social conversations.
It’s no coincidence these packages look a lot like
candy or gum. The bright and colorful packages are
designed to appeal to kids. Nationally, 80 percent
of kids who use tobacco use fruit, candy or menthol
flavored tobacco.
Minnesota has seen a nearly 50 percent surge in
high-school students using e-cigarettes. Almost
40 percent of high-school students have tried
e-cigarettes, which come in kid-friendly flavors
like gummy bear and cotton candy. Nicotine is
addictive and can harm the adolescent brain.
Among Minnesota teen smokers, 34 percent report smoking menthols.
Tobacco industry documents show efforts to market menthol products to African Americans, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) communities, and young people.