'Tobacco candy' being sold in shops

Cheney Kenny, a sweet popular with children, allegedly contains harmful ingredients, according to a top official. The sweet contains traces of nicotine, glycerin, Vitol, menthol, diethyl, cotinine, which often lead to addiction, said Lt. Col. Khalid Al Sumaidi, Senior Chemist, General Directorate of Criminal Evidence and Criminology, Dubai Police.

Popularly known as 'tobacco candy' the sweet is also sold in shops near schools which is a serious concern, especially as parents are not aware of the harmful effects of the candy. Students who become addicted to it place the sweet in between their lip and gum for effect, reported 'Al Bayan'.

He explained that nicotine is not soluble in water. It is absorbed by the skin inside the mouth and goes through blood to the brain in seven seconds. It results in euphoria and relaxation, while long-term addiction may lead to paralysis of the respiratory system, added Al Sumaidi.

The Tobacco Control Bill prohibits the sale or attempted sale of sweets and games that are similar to tobacco or its products, and anyone who violates any provision of this Article, will be jailed for not less than one year along with a Dh1,000 fine.

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