They say the additives may appear harmless in themselves, but can increase the addictiveness of cigarettes. For example, chemicals can enhance the alkaline content of smoke, which will increase the nicotine hit, making it more addictive. Sweeteners such as sugar can also be added to cigarettes, making them more appealing to young people. They say a 1997 voluntary agreement is unlikely to be effective as it only applies to new additives and those which are toxic. Dr Martin Jarvis of the Imperial Cancer Research Fund said he wants the government to force tobacco companies to reveal what additives are in particular brands of cigarettes and to show that they do not have a damaging effect on public health.
Tobacco companies deny they have deliberately attempted to get young people hooked on smoking.
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