Menthol cigarettes may soon be banned in the U.S. as a new study reveals that the substance may pose a greater threat to public health.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the Food and Drug Administration is looking at setting restrictions on the use of mentholated cigarettes in the country. The report noted that the move is based on a conclusive study revealing that mentholated sticks are "more appealing to new smokers, more addictive to longtime smokers" and the substance also has more negative effects on health than an unflavored tobacco.

"FDA's actions today on menthol reflect our commitment to explore all potential options, including the establishment of product standards," FDA Center for Tobacco Products Director Mitch Zeller told the LA Times.

The study released by FDA on Tuesday reveals that menthol in tobaccos have "altered physiological responses to tobacco smoke" in humans. This effect is also closely related to tobaccos' high levels of addictiveness, while also pushing health risks upward.

With the release of the report this week, a 60-day public commenting period was implemented. The two-month timespan will allow people to share their thoughts on the matter that could help FDA create a new set of restrictions on cigarettes.

"Menthol cigarettes raise critical public health questions," Zeller noted, as reported by Bloomberg. "We need more information on outcomes and we are honestly soliciting comment in response to the questions about regulatory outcomes."

Bloomberg notes that companies like Lorillard Inc., Altria Group Inc. and Reynolds American Inc. will be greatly affected should the FDA decide to post a ban on these items. The report notes that 30 percent of the cigarette market is made up of the menthol-flavored sticks.

However, Zeller explains that the move against mentholated cigarettes is for the public's benefit and will definitely take into consideration all possible angles.