In a major nationwide crackdown, federal agents seized over 600,000 illegal vaping products from a distributor outside Chicago, targeting shipments from China that often evade U.S. regulations.

The operation involved multiple agencies including the ATF, FDA, and U.S. Marshals, with seizures spanning Illinois, North Carolina, Arizona, New Jersey, Georgia, and Florida.

Officials highlighted that many of these products are aimed at children, teens, military personnel, and students, with some smuggled from China to bypass safety reviews and customs duties.

Seized items included brands like 'Sad Boy' and 'Pillow Talk Ice Control,' with flavors such as funnel cake and purple galaxy, most of which are illegal except for tobacco, menthol, and cinnamon, as clarified by authorities.

The government warns that many illegal vaping products contain high levels of nicotine, metals, and untested chemicals, posing serious health risks, especially to youth.

Officials emphasized that a significant portion of these products are so dangerous that they are not even sold in China, and that 85% of retail vape products are illegal, contributing to a vaping epidemic among children.

The FDA stressed that all non-approved products will be seized or destroyed, with a focus on preventing youth access due to health concerns.

The crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to reduce the flow of illegal, kid-friendly flavored vapes, which have been linked to increased youth vaping and health issues.

Critics, including the Vapor Technology Association, argue that enforcement actions threaten small American businesses and jobs, calling for regulators to reconsider their approach.

Some industry critics claim that most of these products are legally marketed and that enforcement could harm legitimate businesses supporting over 150,000 jobs and significant tax revenues.

Following undercover investigations, the Justice Department filed civil actions against multiple distributors and retailers to halt illegal sales practices.

Authorities also indicated that criminal charges could be pursued if warranted, aiming to curb the influx of illegal, youth-appealing flavored vapes.