In full-page ads in major newspapers coinciding with national “Kick Butts Day,” New York State Health Commissioner Richard F. Daines, M.D., is urging supermarkets to discontinue the sale of tobacco products and follow the lead of three supermarket chains that have already done so. In January, New York-based Wegmans Food Markets announced the discontinuation of cigarettes and other tobacco product sales in its stores.

“Grocery stores are very important members of the community and New Yorkers need their leadership on this issue,” Daines said. “This is the only product being sold by food markets that, when used as intended, will kill their customers and increase the number of those dying from devastating diseases like cancer.”

According to Convenience Store/Petroleum, the health department could not be reached for comment to determine if it planned to target other retail channels, such as convenience stores, to reduce sales of cigarettes and other tobacco products. The New York State legislature does have a bill pending that proposes restricting all pharmacies and stores with pharmacies from selling tobacco products.

“The science shows that higher advertising levels and prominent cigarette promotions are associated with more youth starting to smoke,” Daines said. “Reducing availability and promotion of tobacco products will help people quit, discourage youth from starting and demonstrate that supermarkets really are good neighbors who care about the communities in which they are located.”