Candy cigarette

Candy Cigarette

Caravellis Djébel Chocolate Cigarettes tin

Candy cigarettes are a type of confectionery that mimic the appearance of traditional cigarettes. These candies are typically made from sugar, cornstarch, and flavoring, and are often shaped and packaged to resemble real cigarettes. They have been a subject of controversy due to their potential influence on children and their perceived promotion of smoking.

History

Candy cigarettes have been around since the early 20th century. They were originally marketed as a novelty item and became popular among children who wanted to imitate adults. The candies were often sold in packaging that closely resembled actual cigarette packs, complete with brand names and logos that parodied real cigarette brands.

During the mid-20th century, candy cigarettes were widely available and considered a harmless treat. However, as public awareness of the health risks associated with smoking increased, so did concerns about the potential impact of candy cigarettes on children's attitudes towards smoking.

Controversy

The main controversy surrounding candy cigarettes is their potential role in normalizing smoking behavior among children. Critics argue that by allowing children to "play" at smoking, candy cigarettes may desensitize them to the dangers of tobacco use and increase the likelihood of them becoming smokers in the future.

In response to these concerns, some countries have banned the sale of candy cigarettes, while others have imposed restrictions on their packaging and marketing. For example, in the United States, the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act of 2009 restricted the marketing of candy cigarettes to children.

Modern Variations

Candy cigarette display in shop

Today, candy cigarettes are less common than they once were, but they are still available in some specialty candy stores and online. Modern versions often use different names, such as "candy sticks" or "candy sticks with chocolate," to avoid the negative connotations associated with smoking.

Some manufacturers have also altered the appearance of the candies to make them less realistic, opting for bright colors and playful packaging that distances them from actual cigarettes.

Cultural Impact

Candy cigarettes have been featured in various forms of media, often as a symbol of childhood innocence or as a commentary on societal attitudes towards smoking. They have appeared in films, television shows, and literature, sometimes used to highlight the contrast between childhood play and adult habits.

Related Pages

• Cigarette
• Smoking
• Confectionery
• Public health