22nd Century Group, a company that adjusts nicotine levels in tobacco via biotechnology, said it joined the Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) and would begin national marketing of its premium cigarette brands.

22nd Century and Nasco Products, a manufacturer of tobacco products and MSA member acquired earlier this year, negotiated an amended adherence agreement to include both companies. The MSA agreement with governments of US states and territories requires participating tobacco companies to pay into a fund to reduce costs to health-care providers in return for protection against future lawsuits to reclaim costs for treating smoking-related illnesses.
Red Sun and Magic premium cigarettes were introduced in 2011, but on a limited basis pending MSA membership. Their production will be increased in the next 30 days, the company said in a 2 Sept statement. Sales and distribution campaigns will be launched across the US.
22nd Century is based in New York state and owns or licenses 129 patents in 78 countries. The plant biotech company developed ways to increase or lower nicotinic alkaloid levels in tobacco plants via genetic engineering and plant breeding. Wholly owned subsidiaries include Goodrich Tobacco Company and Hercules Pharmaceuticals.