RNZ investigation finds uranium, lead in black-market tobacco
An RNZ investigation has revealed that black-market cigarettes sold in Auckland contain dangerous levels of heavy metals, including uranium, lead, and cadmium. These illicit products bypass health regulations and pose significant risks to public health.
Why it matters
The findings highlight the dangers of the illicit tobacco trade and the failure of current enforcement to prevent hazardous products from reaching consumers.
Black-market cigarettes sold in Auckland have even more harmful chemicals than regular smokes, including higher levels of uranium, RNZ has found.
The report relies on scientific analysis and objective findings regarding public health risks.
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