Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2015
FDA warning over No Bull and additive-free labeling
The FDA warned ITG Brands that Winston labeling and promotional claims describing the cigarettes as additive-free could mislead consumers by implying reduced health risk.
1999
Federal Trade Commission action over additive-free claims
Winston's additive-free claims led to a Federal Trade Commission settlement requiring clarification that the absence of additives did not make the cigarettes safer.
1970
Targeted marketing to African-American consumers
Winston participated in the tobacco industry's targeted advertising to African-American consumers, using media and imagery directed at Black audiences. The practice is now widely examined as an example of unequal and community-specific tobacco marketing.
1960
Cigarette advertising on The Flintstones
Winston's use of cartoon characters in early Flintstones commercials has been criticized as tobacco promotion through entertainment associated with children.