Medical Officer of Health Doctor Hazel Lynn says over the past month she has received several complaints from concerned residents about illegal cigarettes.
Contraband cigarettes don’t label what’s in the tobacco – and the level of toxic substances and nicotine is unknown.
RCMP labs have tested and analyzed tobacco from cigarettes produced illegally overseas and have found mould, insect eggs and even animal feces.
Doctor Lynn says consumers really don’t know what they are putting into their bodies.
She adds most illegal tobacco is sold for as little as six dollars a bag, which makes buying cigarettes affordable for youth and people who were considering quitting.
The Health Unit is working in cooperation with the RCMP and local police to stop the sale of illegal tobacco.
Doctor Lynn says its hard for the Health Unit to stop criminal activity, and they are relying on the public’s cooperation.
The Health Unit has also teamed up with The Board of Health in Timmins encourage the federal government to ban or regulate flavoured tobacco.
The Health Unit feels the sugary flavours and colourful packaging are targeted at youth.
