FDA Issues Warnings to 14 Online Retailers for Unauthorized E-Cigarettes

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai
May.02.2024
FDA Issues Warnings to 14 Online Retailers for Unauthorized E-Cigarettes
FDA warns 14 online retailers for selling unauthorized e-cigarette products popular among teenagers, including Elf Bar and Esco Bar.

According to an announcement issued by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 1st, the FDA has recently sent warning letters to 14 online retailers for selling e-cigarette products without authorization from the FDA. The products are also popular among teenagers. The warning letters involve well-known e-cigarette brands such as Elf Bar/EB Design, Esco Bars, Funky Republic, Hyde, Kang, Cali Bars, and Lost Mary.

 

According to the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Consumption Survey, out of over 2.1 million adolescents reported currently using e-cigarette products, more than 50% are using Elf Bar products, while over 20% are using Esco Bar products.

 

Retailers who receive these warning letters, for selling or distributing e-cigarette products in the United States without FDA authorization, are in violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Recipients of the warning letters must respond within 15 business days and detail the actions they will take to address the violations mentioned in the warning letter and prevent future occurrences. Failure to promptly address these violations may prompt the FDA to take further action, such as injunctions, seizures, and/or civil penalties.

 

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

China's e-cigarette exports reach $936 million in August 2025, up 5.27% from July
China's e-cigarette exports reach $936 million in August 2025, up 5.27% from July
China's e-cigarette export trade increased by 5.27% in August 2025, reaching $936 million, driven by strong performance in the US.
Sep.25 by 2FIRSTS.ai
EU Cardiovascular Health Plan Consultation Highlights Tobacco Debate — 2Firsts Analysis Reveals Divide Between “Cessation” and “Harm Reduction” Approaches
EU Cardiovascular Health Plan Consultation Highlights Tobacco Debate — 2Firsts Analysis Reveals Divide Between “Cessation” and “Harm Reduction” Approaches
As the EU finalizes its Cardiovascular Health Plan, public feedback reveals a sharp divide over nicotine policy.A 2Firsts analysis of 677 submissions found that nearly one in four mentioned tobacco — highlighting tension between strict control and harm reduction approaches.
Oct.07
Kennede Electronics MFG Co.,Ltd. 2025 Half-Year Report: E-cigarette Business Revenue Falls 54.57% to 26.21 million yuan, accounting for less than 5% of total revenue
Kennede Electronics MFG Co.,Ltd. 2025 Half-Year Report: E-cigarette Business Revenue Falls 54.57% to 26.21 million yuan, accounting for less than 5% of total revenue
In the first half of 2025, Kennede Electronics MFG Co.,Ltd. achieved an e-cigarette business revenue of 26.2068 million yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 54.57%, accounting for only 4.65% of the company’s total operating income, down from 7.26% in the same period of 2024. The company pointed out in its half-year report that the e-cigarette industry is facing overall export pressure due to the sudden drop in demand in the US market, stricter international tariffs and compliance policies.
Sep.01 by 2FIRSTS.ai
New York State's largest e-cigarette enforcement operation: 12 companies investigated, more than 10 people arrested, and 38 criminal charges brought against them
New York State's largest e-cigarette enforcement operation: 12 companies investigated, more than 10 people arrested, and 38 criminal charges brought against them
New York State Governor declares the state's largest e-cigarette enforcement action, with over a dozen arrests, 38 charges, and 12 businesses targeted for illegal e-cigarette shipments. The joint operation by the health department and state police focuses on flavored and high-tech e-cigarettes sold online and through apps, which often target minors. Officials highlight that the action aims to protect youth health and warn of severe consequences for violators.
Sep.04 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Malaysian Officials Issue Stern Warning Against Smuggling E-Cigarettes to Singapore, Highlighting Severe Consequences and Government Support for Nationwide Ban.
Malaysian Officials Issue Stern Warning Against Smuggling E-Cigarettes to Singapore, Highlighting Severe Consequences and Government Support for Nationwide Ban.
Johor official warns Malaysians against smuggling e-cigarettes into Singapore; strict penalties await violators. Support for nationwide ban grows.
Sep.15 by 2FIRSTS.ai
UK Vaping Product Approvals Soar to 1,552, a 32x Increase | Pod Products Drive Growth
UK Vaping Product Approvals Soar to 1,552, a 32x Increase | Pod Products Drive Growth
The UK's MHRA database saw a 32-fold increase in e-cigarette registrations from Sep 8-14, with 1,552 new approvals. Pod products from brands like ELFBAR and SMOK made up over 90% of the new entries.
Sep.16 by 2FIRSTS.ai