BfR Study Confirms Lower Health Risk of Nicotine Pouches

Oct.13.2022
BfR Study Confirms Lower Health Risk of Nicotine Pouches
BfR study confirms lower health risks with smokeless nicotine pouches vs traditional cigarettes, urges regulation.

A recent study by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has confirmed that compared to smoking traditional cigarettes, nicotine pouches can reduce health risks. To protect consumers, the BfR recommends regulating the manufacturing, display, and sale of nicotine pouches.


In a detailed study of the ingredients of nicotine pouches conducted in August 2022, scientists from BfR found that aside from nicotine, these pouches do not contain any substances that could cause health issues. However, trace amounts of tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs) were detected in some samples, similar to those found in medical nicotine replacement products.


Scientists at the BfR are concerned about insufficient labeling and lack of warning on certain products.


The CEO of the Association of the German Tobacco Industry and New Products (BVTE), Jan Muecke, stated that "these criticisms can, in principle, be resolved". "It would be very meaningful to set appropriate limits for nicotine and TSNA and to introduce binding regulations regarding warnings and labels. Consumer rights must be effectively protected.


Muecke stated that BVTE welcomes the regulation of nicotine pouches in accordance with tobacco laws. Unlike their counterparts in other European countries, German regulatory agencies treat nicotine pouches as food products, making them illegal in Germany.


Muecke stated that he hopes the evaluation conducted by BfR will prompt regulatory agencies to reconsider their position. He further added, "We hope that nicotine pouches will offer a potentially less harmful alternative for tobacco and nicotine product consumers.


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