Safer Solutions: Natural vs. Synthetic Substances Part II—Regulation Improves Safety
Effective regulation focusing on safety and risk, rather than substance origin, is crucial for consumer protection, as demonstrated by nicotine and illicit drug markets.Summary
This article argues that the distinction between “natural” and “synthetic” substances is often irrelevant to their safety and that regulation should focus on risk assessment rather than origin. The authors use nicotine as an example, detailing how differing regulations for synthetic and tobacco-derived nicotine created loopholes until legislation in 2022 clarified the FDA’s authority over both. They further illustrate this point with the dangers of unregulated synthetic opioids like fentanyl and the 2019 EVALI outbreak linked to illicit cannabis vapes containing vitamin E acetate. The article emphasizes that prohibition leads to more potent and dangerous products due to a lack of quality control and regulatory oversight. Ultimately, the authors advocate for thoughtful, adaptable regulation that considers the complex interactions of chemicals with the body and prioritizes relative risks and benefits, regardless of whether a substance is natural or synthetic.
(Source：R Street Institute)
