KT&G Resumes Sales of 'Mix Ice Double' After Odor Issue Suspension

Lejeune French Cleo Supply Resumes

Sales of KT&G’s heated tobacco sticks ‘Mix Ice Double’ and ‘Raison French Cleo,’ exclusive to the Lil Hybrid heated tobacco device, have resumed after being suspended for nearly two weeks due to an off-flavor issue.

According to the convenience store industry on the 17th, orders for Mix Ice Double resumed on the 15th. KT&G also announced that production of the product has restarted and supply has resumed. Accordingly, the supply of Mix Ice Double, which had been suspended, resumed at convenience stores and other tobacco retailers from the previous day, depending on the region. As of this date, sales are taking place at all convenience stores nationwide that have placed orders.

Earlier, on the 3rd, KT&G voluntarily recalled and disposed of certain batches of Mix Ice Double following consumer complaints about specific manufacturing dates. After temporarily suspending sales and initiating the recall, an investigation revealed that the off-flavor was caused by negligence in the flavor combination by an external supplier providing the flavoring. The flavoring in question complies with the food additive standards registered with the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) and is a substance also used in general food products.

‘Raison French Cleo,’ which also had its sales suspended from the 9th due to the same off-flavor issue, has resumed orders exclusively at 7-Eleven. Other convenience stores such as CU and GS25, as well as other tobacco retailers, are expected to resume orders at midnight on the same day.

A KT&G representative stated, "The company has reestablished the inspection process for flavorings to prevent recurrence," adding, "We plan to conduct comprehensive diagnostics targeting major raw material suppliers and reorganize the value chain management system."