There's nothing
just about Menthol.

Big Tobacco is using our values and self-image against us.

Learn more about menthol’s impact on women.

Menthol is not just a flavor.


For decades, tobacco companies have marketed menthol-flavored products more heavily to women than men. They use femininity as a promotional tool, advertising in women’s magazines and using brand names and packaging designs that we’re more likely to find attractive.

Menthol products are smoother, too, so they’re easier to start and harder to quit. Which means menthol is not just a flavor — it’s a manipulative way for tobacco companies to attract and addict us.

The biggest problem?
It works.

Women are 1.6 times more likely to smoke menthol cigarettes than men
50% of female adults who currently smoke used menthol cigarettes, compared to 38% of male adults (2020)
Even as overall smoking rates have declined, menthol rates have increased
Magazine cover with Virginia Slims brand of cigarettes

Philip Morris Executive Larry Williams indicated that the name Virginia Slims was chosen because “most women like to think of themselves as slim.”

According to industry documents, the Eve brand was intentionally launched with both a “feminine package design” and a “truly female name.”

Magazine cover with Eve brand of cigarettes

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We agree that there is nothing just about menthol. And it's time to end this injustice.

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Free Support Available to Become and Stay Tobacco-Free

The New York State Smokers' Quitline is a confidential service for all New York State residents who wish to overcome tobacco use, including e-cigarettes.

Free offerings include individualized coaching and assistance with quit-planning from highly trained Quit Coaches, text and chat support and free shipping of stop-smoking medications such as nicotine patches or nicotine gum for those 18 and older. Residents of all ages may contact the Quitline for support and educational materials. In addition, the Quitline encourages teens and young adults (ages 13-24) to text "DROPTHEVAPE" to 88709 to join This Is Quitting, a free texting support program for help with quitting vaping.

Visit nysmokefree.com anytime for more information or call 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487) seven days a week, beginning at 9 a.m.

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