Smokers who want the minty taste of menthol with every puff will have to get their supply elsewhere.
Starting Thursday, the province’s ban on selling menthol tobacco comes into effect.
The ban was one of the first decisions made by the NDP government.
However, some business owners say the ban will hurt their bottom line.
“Generally our customers are unsatisfied with the fact that menthol is going to disappear,” said Gerry Ell at Modern Family Convenience Store.
Ell said some customers have been stocking up on menthol products in the last couple of weeks.
Health Minister Sarah Hoffman said she’s confident store owners will comply with the new rules.
“Our number one driver is to ensure that we’re keeping kids safe and enabling them to make healthy long-term decisions,” said Hoffman. “I’m really proud our government moved in that direction so quickly.”
According to the province, if a retailer sells a menthol product, the store could face a $500 fine.
Agencies/Canadajournal