[Fine-cut tobacco: a priority for public health and consumer advocacy].

OBJECTIVES To study whether fine-cut tobacco poses a problem for public health and consumer affairs. METHODS We analyzed up to 70% of the fine-cut tobacco market in Spain. Regarding public health, the contents of nicotine, tar and carbon monoxide were analyzed and compared with levels in conventional cigarettes. Concerning consumer affairs, the labeling of samples was checked. RESULTS The contents of nicotine, tar and carbon monoxide reached values of 70%, 85% and 84%, respectively. These values are higher than those allowed in conventional cigarettes. A total of 67% of the samples analyzed did not show nicotine and tar contents on the labeling. None of the labels showed carbon monoxide contents. The presence of labeling per se did not guarantee sufficient information for consumers. CONCLUSIONS Fine-cut tobacco is a problem in both public health and consumer affairs. Solutions are required to resolve both problems.