Bidis

• Bidis or beedies are small, flavored, filter less cigarettes.

• They are made in India and have gained popularity among America’s teenagers.

• They consist of shredded tobacco rolled in dried tendu leaves (a broad-leafed plant native to India) and secured with string.

• They come in a variety of flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, cherry, licorice, and mango.

Health Hazards related to bidi use:

• Bidis are not a safe alternative to cigarettes.

• One study found that one bidi produces more than 3 times the amount of carbon monoxide and nicotine than in 1 regular cigarette.

• Bidis also have more than 5 times the amount of tar than 1 cigarette, when tested on a standard smoking machine.

• Bidis cause cancer and other serious diseases.