Brown & Williamson Secretly Developed Genetically Engineered Tobacco for Higher Nicotine Levels

Strategic Insights -

The Food and Drug Administration Commissioner, Dr. David A. Kessler, revealed during a Congressional hearing that the Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation secretly developed a genetically engineered tobacco, known as Y-1, designed to increase nicotine levels in cigarettes by more than double. The tobacco was grown in Brazil and used in five domestic brands of cigarettes, including three labeled "light." The company had denied engaging in such practices, but after being presented with evidence, it acknowledged having over three million pounds of the specially developed tobacco in its warehouses.

Key Takeaways:

  • Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation developed a genetically engineered tobacco, Y-1, to increase nicotine levels in cigarettes by over 100%.
  • The tobacco was grown in Brazil and used in five domestic brands of cigarettes, including three labeled "light."
  • The company had denied engaging in such practices, but later acknowledged having over three million pounds of the specially developed tobacco in its warehouses.
  • The Food and Drug Administration's Commissioner, Dr. David A. Kessler, has suggested that the agency may consider regulating cigarettes as drugs if it determines that cigarette makers intended that people should buy their products to satisfy a "nicotine addiction."
  • The Commissioner also sought to investigate whether the F.D.A. should regulate tobacco as a drug delivery device.
  • Dr. Kessler testified that among the 599 ingredients added to tobacco, several ammonia compounds increase the delivery of nicotine in cigarettes.
  • The tobacco industry has responded by stating that they control tar and nicotine to conform with Federal regulations and to produce a consistent product.

Statistics:

  • 6.2%: The highest nicotine yield known in the genetically engineered tobacco, Y-1, compared to 2.5% to 3% found naturally in flue-cured tobacco.
  • 2.5% to 3%: The naturally occurring nicotine concentration in flue-cured tobacco.
  • 1993: The year in which the F.D.A. learned of Y-1 through a Brazilian patent for a new variety of flue-cured tobacco.
  • 1970s: The decade in which the United States Department of Agriculture conducted an experiment that led to the development of the seeds used to create Y-1.
  • 599: The number of ingredients added to tobacco, including several ammonia compounds that increase nicotine delivery.
  • Over 3 million pounds: The amount of Y-1 tobacco stored in Brown & Williamson's warehouses in the United States.

Sources:

  • Dr. David A. Kessler, testimony before the House Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Health and the Environment.
  • The Food and Drug Administration, records obtained through patent documents and shipping records.
  • The DNA Plant Technology Corporation, records obtained through an interview with Dr. David A. Evans, vice president of business development.
  • Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation, records obtained through an interview with Tom Fitzgerald, company spokesman.
  • The Tobacco Institute, statement by Merryman Walker, vice president.
  • Congressional testimony, including statements by Dr. David A. Kessler, Representative Henry A. Waxman, and Representative Ron Wyden.