FTC Warns MAGA-Branded Vape Maker Over False ‘Made in America’ Claims

The Federal Trade Commission has warned the parent company of Fifty Bar, a MAGA-branded disposable e-cigarette maker, over deceptive “Made in America” marketing. This regulatory action comes as federal officials target illicit, Chinese-sourced vaping products entering the U.S. market.

Fifty Bar markets itself as “the only disposable built in the USA” and uses the slogan “Making Vaping American Again.” However, an FTC warning letter sent to parent company Lucky Bar indicates that the products are imported, in whole or in large part, from China.

Company owner Brady Bates previously admitted that Fifty Bar’s components originate in China. Beyond assembly issues, the brand’s e-cigarettes contain nixodine, a Chinese-made chemical formulated to evade Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.

The presence of nixodine has drawn criticism from health officials and law enforcement. During his Senate confirmation hearing, FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary raised concerns over unregulated Chinese imports, noting that manufacturers export products to the U.S. that are banned in China.

Richard Marianos, a former Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) senior consultant, urged the administration to close the regulatory loopholes allowing nixodine imports. He emphasized that targeting deceptive domestic brands sourcing from China is a critical step in securing the market.

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.

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