A former top law enforcement official is warning about an attempt by illicit Chinese vape companies to exploit legal loopholes by replacing nicotine with an unregulated substitute to continue selling flavored disposable vapes to children.

Unregulated Substances

The synthetic compound, 6-methyl nicotine, also known as 6MN or ‘NIX,’ is a nicotine analog marketed under brand names including Nixodine and Metatine, with some manufacturers arguing 6-methyl nicotine products fall outside the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) authority.

Former Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Deputy Director Edgar Domenech said that while nicotine is a well-known addictive substance regulated by the FDA, the nicotine substitute ‘manufactured illegally in China’ is an ‘unknown variable’ that hasn’t been studied enough.

Targeting Youth

Domenech said the companies keep the same branding, packaging, and flavors while changing just one ingredient, allowing them to profit from children who may not realize what they’re consuming.

‘They’re targeting our youngest, most vulnerable generation’ with flavored disposable vapes containing chemicals whose long-term health effects remain unknown, Domenech said.

A recent Duke University study found 6-methyl nicotine may be stronger than nicotine, raising concerns it could be more addictive.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.