22nd Century Group

22nd Century Group is a plant biotechnology company based in Williamsville, New York, founded in 1998. The company specializes in altering the levels of nicotine and other alkaloids in tobacco plants through genetic engineering and plant breeding. It focuses on tobacco harm reduction and smoking cessation products by commercializing very low nicotine content (VLNC) tobacco cigarettes, as well as research cigarettes branded as SPECTRUM for independent clinical studies. Additionally, the company engages in contract manufacturing for third-party branded tobacco products. With a strategic partnership with Keygene N.V., 22nd Century Group is also developing hemp and cannabis plants for medical, therapeutic, and agricultural applications. The company aims to provide alternatives for smokers, addressing the need for products that facilitate smoking cessation and improve public health.