France May Ban Disposable E-Cigarettes by Year's End

The French government is considering a ban on disposable electronic cigarettes, particularly popular among teenagers, by the end of this year, according to Health Minister Francois Braun, who expressed his support for the ban, stating that these devices can lead some young people towards tobacco use, reports radiofrance (radiofrance.fr).

Braun highlighted the dangers of smoking, citing that it claims 75,000 lives per year in France. Despite lacking a parliamentary majority, President Emmanuel Macron's government intends to collaborate with lawmakers to reach an agreement on the ban, which could be implemented before the year concludes.

The potential ban could be integrated into a new five-year anti-smoking plan being developed by the health ministry. Disposable electronic cigarettes, referred to as "puffs" in France, are available in sweet and fruit flavors and feature bright packaging. These products are sold at prices accessible to teenagers, ranging from 8 to 12 euros ($8.80-13.25) for 500 puffs.

Approximately 20 brands marketing these products in France face accusations of targeting adolescents, despite existing regulations prohibiting the sale of electronic cigarettes to minors. Anti-smoking group ACT noted last year that disposable devices have gained popularity on social media and are perceived as mostly positive and harmless among young people.

However, ACT emphasized that single-use cigarettes can contain up to 20 milligrams per milliliter of highly addictive nicotine, potentially serving as an entry point to smoking.