Fears over nicotine water

A bottled water spiked with nicotine due to go on sale in the US next month was today described as a risk to children by anti-tobacco groups.

Nico Water is marketed as a cigarette substitute useful in restaurants, cinemas, on planes and other places when smoking is banned.

"It takes away the desire for a cigarette and you don't have to feel like a second-class citizen or a leper anymore," said Timothy Owens, from manufacturer Quick Test Five.

Described as tasting like tap water, but with a slightly peppery aftertaste, Nico Water will be sold in half litre bottles for €2.20.

But the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids said it could easily act as a first step into addiction with children.