FDA warns Kroger, Walmart, others over underage tobacco sales

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration sent out letters to a dozen retailers, including Walmart and Kroger, warning them for selling tobacco products to minors.

The letters, which were dated April 5, were sent to retailers with high violation rates.

Retailers who received letters include Kroger, Walmart, 7-Eleven, BP, Casey’s, Chevron, Citgo, Exxon, Family Dollar, Marathon, Shell and Sunoco.

“Because tobacco use is almost always initiated and established during adolescence, early intervention-including making sure tobacco products aren't being sold to minors- is critical,” the FDA wrote in a statement.

The agency requested that retailers submit a detailed plan to prevent the sale of tobacco products to minors.

“Violating the law preventing sales of tobacco products to minors, and paying associated fines and penalties, should not simply be viewed as a cost of doing business,” the FDA said.

The agency also recently unveiled a Youth Tobacco Prevention Plan to help discourage minors from smoking.

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