Cigarettes with ultralow nicotine levels are now being called the game-changer in the fight against smoking. If you are having trouble in quitting smoking, then, it is for you, that soon the Biden White House is expected to formally propose a plan that will order cigarette nicotine levels to be reduced, reports The Washington Post. For now though, it has been a failure, as these cigarettes, also known as VLN cigarettes that stands for very low nicotine are only available in 5,100 stores in 26 states. This is a very small fraction of the overall market for cigarettes. The company that makes it, 22nd Century, is struggling not because of the low supply, but also from the advocates who have long believed slashing nicotine levels altogether.

The Advent and ideation

Nicotine is a chemical that is produced naturally from tobacco that makes the cigarette and also keeps people hooked. While it is believed that it makes people alert, and get the "hit" to keep them going, it exposes the users to harmful substances, carcinogens, and increases the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and other illness.

Ultralow-nicotine cigarettes, like the VLN brand, contain about 95% less nicotine than the regular cigarettes. The idea is quite simple: without the addictive grip of nicotine, smokers will find it easier to quit. Research too has shown some promise. For instance, the studies funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse revealed that very low nicotine cigarettes reduced addiction potential significantly without having users to increase their smoking frequency. However, the problem is, why would anyone choose for a low-nicotine that does not make them feel the same way, when the high-nicotine cigarette is right next to it, making them feel the same way, with the same alertness, sold at the same price.

“It’s very hard to imagine someone actively choosing to continue to use a low-nicotine product for the same price when a high-nicotine product is right next to it,” said Eric Donny, a Wake Forest University School of Medicine nicotine researcher.

No wonder, the experiment with low nicotine product by Philip Morris' Next cigarettes in the 1980s and Vector Tobacco's Quest brand in the early 2000s, flopped.

FDA's Role in the Push

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has supported the development of such products, even allowing VLN cigarettes to be marketed as lower-risk options. However, these products remain a niche market, available in only a fraction of U.S. stores.

Recently, the Biden administration has considered a bold step—mandating a dramatic reduction in nicotine levels for all cigarettes sold in the United States. Supporters believe this move could save millions of lives, while critics, including tobacco companies, warn of potential unintended consequences.

What Could Be The Challenges?

Resistance from Big Tobacco Companies: They could argue that slashing nicotine levels could backfire. Their claim is, smokers will turn to black markets or smoke more to satisfy their cravings, which may lead to greater exposure to harmful substances.

Consumer Reluctance: History is proof to the instances of smokers being hesitant to embrace the low-nicotine products.

Political Hurdle: It may face political roadblocks, as under the Trump administration, plans to cut nicotine were shelved.

Could Low-Nicotine Cigarettes Be The Solution?

Advocates believe that ultralow-nicotine cigarettes could be a game-changer, comparing them to decaf coffee or non-alcoholic beer—products that reduce harm while offering a similar experience.

Some experts warn that a black market for traditional cigarettes could undermine these efforts. They also stress the need for safer alternatives, such as vaping products, to support smokers transitioning away from traditional cigarettes.

Four children have died from flu in Massachusetts so far, public health officials confirmed. The deaths occurred in recent weeks as peak flu season has been witnessed, noted the Department of Public Health. The Boston Public Health Commission on Tuesday said that two of the deaths were children in the city under 2 years old.

"These viruses are serious, dangerous, and life-threatening. We are seeing children who are seriously ill, families grieving devastating losses, and hospitals under capacity strain," Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein said in a statement.

More Pediatric Deaths Could Happen

While this season noted for 4 deaths, in the 2024-25 season, there were 10 pediatric deaths, which according to the department was a record high. "It's early in the season yet and it would not be surprising to see more, sadly," said Dr. Larry Madoff, the medical director of the department's bureau of infectious disease and laboratory sciences, as reported by CBS News. "It's shaping up to be a severe early flu season."

Read: Flu Cases Reach At Its Highest Level In 25 Years: Reveals CDC Data

Who Are At Most Risk Of Dying From Flu?

Dr Madoff said that children who are under the age of 2 are at most risk of dying from flu. However, doctors are also seeing severe cases in children as old as 5. As of now, there have been 29 adult deaths this flu season. Flu activity is also said to be "very high" in the state for the first time this season and 9% of all hospitalization in the state are due to flu, which was 5% last week.

The state is also investigating two possible COVID related deaths and one RSV related death in patients under 18 years old.

Also Read: Unique Symptoms Of Flu In 2026 And How Long Infection Now Last

What Is The Best Way To Protect Yourself Against Flu?

Massachusetts that reported a very high level of flu activity, officials are urging people to stay vaccinated. In a news release, Public Health Commissioner Dr Robbie Goldstein said, "This is a moment for clarity, urgency, and action. These viruses are serious, dangerous, and life-threatening. We are seeing children who are seriously ill, families grieving devastating losses, and hospitals under capacity strain. There is a simple, effective, and available way to address these concerns: vaccines."

He further added: "They can prevent serious illness and hospitalization. And they save lives. If you have not yet been vaccinated against flu or COVID-19 this season, now is the time. It is not too late. Choosing vaccination is choosing to protect yourself, your family, your friends, your colleagues, and your community.”

Dr Michael Osterholm who directs the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota says, "In the next 48 hours, if you haven’t been vaccinated, get vaccinated. Don’t wait."

As of now, as per the CDC at least 11 million people have had the flu this season, 120,000 have been hospitalized with it and 5,000 people have died.

Flu vaccinations have also dropped in children from a high of 53% over the 2019-20 flu season to 42% at the same point this season. The new flu data released by the US Department of Health and Human services have further announced to modify the childhood vaccine schedule.

Sonia Gandhi, Congress leader has been admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi after she suffered respiratory discomfort on Tuesday. Reports have mentioned that her condition as of now is "absolutely stable". Gandhi has a problem of chronic cough, and due to the capital city's pollution, she has been regular with hospital visits and check-ups. Hospital source, while speaking to the news agency PTI said that "it is a routine admission".

What Happened To Sonia Gandhi?

According to reports, she had complained of some respiratory discomfort. Once her medical examination was done, it was found that "her bronchial asthma had been mildly exacerbated", confirmed Dr Ajay Swaroop, Chairman of the hospital. A hospital source told PTI that this is due to the combined effects of cold weather and pollution.

As a precautionary measure, she was admitted in hospital for further observation and treatment. The physicians who are treating her will be taking a decision on her discharge based on her clinical progress. This can take a day or two, confirmed sourced.

Read: 30% of Delhi’s Children Are Borderline Asthmatic, Says Doctor

What Is Bronchial Asthma?

Bronchial asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of airways that causes periodic "attacks" of coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. This explains the routine admission. As per a 2008 study, published in Deutsches Ärzteblatt International, this affects about 10% children and 5% adults.

The study notes that it is characterized by bronchial hyperactivity and a variable degree of airway obstruction. It is diagnosed on the basis of the clinical history physical examination, and pulmonary function tests, including reversibility testing and measurement of bronchial reactivity,

Recurrent episodes of acute shortness of breath, usually at night or in the early morning hours are common. Also to be noted that these are the two typical times when pollution levels are at the highest.

What Are The Common Symptoms Of Bronchial Asthma?

Some of the common symptoms of Bronchial Asthma are:

• Cough
• Wheezing
• Feeling of tightness in the chest
• Shortness of breath

The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that asthma affects over 260 million people globally and causes more than 450,000 deaths every year. WHO also notes that many of these deaths are preventable if diagnosed and treated at the right time.

Why Does Bronchial Asthma Flare Up In Polluted Winters?

Dr Dixit Thakur, a Delhi-based pulmonologist at Pulmo Vista Clinics notes that winter acts as a "perfect storm" for asthma patients due to pollution, cold air, infections, and indoor allergens.

Some of the reasons the doctor notes are:

Pollution is at its peak in winter

During winters, low wind speed traps pollutants, temperature inversion prevents dispersion. Furthermore, other factors like stubble burning and firecracker, along with vehicular emissions add to the pollution levels during winter. Find particles like PM2.5 penetrate deep into the lungs and inflame airways that trigger asthma attacks.

Cold air causes airway constriction

When the air is cold and dry and it enters lungs, the airways tighter, inflammation increases and breathing becomes labored. This is especially the case during early mornings and late evenings, or on foggy days.

Rise in respiratory infections

Winter also brings viral colds, flu, sinus infections and bronchitis, all of which can inflame the airways significantly and worsen asthma control. Further, since people stay indoors longer with doors and windows closed, this may extend their exposure to indoor allergens like dust mites, mold, pet dander, and indoor smoke from heater or incense.

Nestle said on Tuesday it is recalling certain batches of its core infant nutrition products, including SMA, BEBA and NAN infant and follow-on formulas, sold across Europe after identifying a possible contamination with a toxin that can trigger nausea and vomiting. The recall, which initially began on a limited scale in December, adds pressure on newly appointed Nestlé CEO Philipp Navratil as he works to revive growth through a portfolio review following months of leadership disruption.

The food giant, best known for brands such as KitKat and Nescafé, stated late on Monday that there have been no confirmed cases of illness or reported symptoms linked to any of the recalled formula products.

After a quality concern was flagged in an ingredient supplied by a major vendor, “Nestlé carried out testing on all arachidonic acid oil and related oil blends used in the manufacture of potentially affected infant nutrition products,” a company spokesperson said, according to Reuters.

Nestle Recalls Infant Formula Products Over Toxin Fears

Nestlé has initiated a precautionary, large-scale recall covering a wide range of SMA infant formula and follow-on milk products sold in the UK after detecting a possible risk linked to the cereulide toxin.

The voluntary recall spans several SMA product ranges, pack sizes and batch codes. Affected products include SMA Advanced First Infant Milk, SMA Advanced Follow-On Milk, SMA Anti Reflux, SMA Alfamino, SMA Comfort, SMA Lactose Free and various SMA First Infant Milk options, including both powdered and ready-to-feed formats.

According to Nestlé, the recall was triggered after internal checks pointed to a potential presence of cereulide, a toxin produced by certain strains of the bacterium Bacillus cereus. The toxin is known for being extremely heat resistant and cannot be neutralised through boiling or normal formula preparation, which makes any impacted product unsafe for consumption.

What Is Cereulide?

As outlined by the National Institute of Health, cereulide is a powerful, heat-stable toxin created by some strains of the common bacterium Bacillus cereus. It causes a severe and fast-acting form of food poisoning, known as the emetic type, marked by intense vomiting. The toxin is a cyclic depsipeptide that disrupts mitochondrial function by allowing potassium ions to pass freely. It is especially concerning because it can survive cooking and reheating, and is commonly associated with foods such as rice, pasta and dairy products left at room temperature.

Nestle Recalls Infant Formula: What Happens When You Ingest Cereulide?

If cereulide is consumed, symptoms can appear quickly and may include nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps. Parents and caregivers are being advised to stop using any of the affected products straight away, even if their baby has not shown any signs of illness.

Nestlé has also advised that when infant formula has been prescribed by a healthcare professional, parents should consult a pharmacist, doctor or another qualified medical professional before switching to an alternative. Anyone who has already fed the recalled formula to their child and is worried about possible health effects is urged to seek medical advice.

The company reiterated that it has not received any confirmed reports of illness linked to the recalled batches. However, it said the recall was carried out as a precautionary measure and in line with its internal safety and quality standards.

Nestle Recalls Infant Formula: What Products Are Being Recalled?

A complete list of recalled products and batch codes is available below.

UK:

SMA Advanced First Infant Milk 800g

• 51450742F1
• 52319722BA
• 52819722AA

SMA Advanced Follow-on Milk 800g

• 51240742F2
• 51890742F2
• 52879722AA

SMA First Infant Milk 800g

• 51170346AA
• 51170346AB
• 51340346AB
• 51580346AA
• 51590346AA
• 52760346AB
• 52760346AD
• 52780346AA

SMA First Infant Milk 400g

• 51350346AA
• 52750346AD

SMA First Infant Milk 1.2Kg

• 51340346BE
• 52740346BA
• 52750346BA

SMA LITTLE STEPS First Infant Milk 800g

• 51220346AD
• 51540346AC
• 52740346AD

SMA Comfort 800g

• 52620742F3
• 51240742F3
• 51439722BA
• 51479722BA
• 51769722BA
• 52049722AA

SMA First Infant Milk 200ml

• 52860295M
• 52870295M
• 53220295M
• 53230295M
• 52870295M
• 53030295M
• 53040295M
• 53070295M
• 53080295M

SMA First Infant Milk 70ml

• 53170742B1

SMA Lactose Free 400g

• 51150346AB
• 51500346AB
• 51719722BA
• 51759722BA
• 51829722BA
• 51979722BA
• 52109722BA
• 53299722BA
• 53459722BA

SMA Anti Reflux 800g

• 51570742F3
• 52099722BA
• 52099722BB
• 52739722BA

ALFAMINO 400g

• 51200017Y3
• 51210017Y1
• 51220017Y1
• 51250017Y1
• 51390017Y1
• 51420017Y2
• 51430017Y1
• 51460017Y1
• 51690017Y2
• 51690017Y3
• 51700017Y1
• 51710017Y1
• 51740017Y1
• 52760017Y5
• 52790017Y1
• 52860017Y1
• 53100017Y3
• 53110017Y1
• 53140017Y1
• 53140017Y2
• 53150017Y1

In addition, the following batches may also be available in Northern Ireland:

SMA First Infant Milk 800g

• 51590346AB
• 52750346AE

Ireland:

SMA Advanced First Infant Milk 800g

• 51450742F1

SMA Advanced Follow-on Milk 800g

• 51240742F2

• 51890742F2

SMA Comfort 800g

• 52620742F3

SMA First Infant Milk 200ml

• 53070295M

• 52860295M

• 52870295M

• 53220295M

• 53230295M

SMA First Infant Milk 800g

• 51590346AB

• 52750346AE

SMA GOLD PREM 2 800g

• 53090742F2

SMA LITTLE STEPS First Infant Milk 800g

• 51540346AD

SMA Alfamino 400g

• 51200017Y3

• 51210017Y1

• 51250017Y1

• 51460017Y1

• 51710017Y1

Parents and carers who have been prescribed any of the listed batches are advised to dispose of the product and speak to their healthcare professional for guidance on a suitable alternative.