Key Points:
·Nicotine pouches raise public health concerns in Malta
·France and the Netherlands have already imposed bans
·Malta plans to address the issue in its future tobacco control strategy
【2Firsts News Flash】According to a report by Malta News Agency on July 7, Malta’s health regulatory authorities have expressed concern over the rapidly growing popularity of nicotine pouch products. This new, unregulated product is spreading quickly among young people and has attracted widespread attention.
The Public Health Authority, citing a statement from the World Health Organization, noted that these nicotine pouches are highly addictive and acutely toxic, potentially serving as an entry point for youth tobacco use. The packaging and marketing feature bright colors, appealing flavors, and trendy designs clearly targeting children and adolescents.
Although these pouches do not contain tobacco and deliver nicotine directly through the gums—thus bypassing existing tobacco regulations—they are currently considered legally permissible due to the lack of specific legislation.
France and the Netherlands have already banned the sale of nicotine pouches in response to similar public health concerns. Malta plans to address this issue in its upcoming 2025-2030 tobacco control strategy, though detailed plans have yet to be announced.
