New National Standards for Non-Tobacco Smoking Mixtures in Russia

According to reports, the Russian Federal Agency for Technical Regulation and Metrology (Rosstandart) has approved a national standard (GOST) for heating non-tobacco mixtures that are inhaled through a hookah or other special device. These mixtures can contain nicotine or be nicotine-free, but the manufacturing process does not allow for nicotine levels to exceed 3.5%. Additionally, the use of plants containing narcotics or psychoactive substances as raw materials is prohibited. Ingredients can include red and green tea, white sugar, citric acid, natural honey, and beet pulp.

Manufacturers are required to clearly indicate on packaging whether a product contains nicotine and provide information on the nicotine content. If a mixture contains nicotine, entrepreneurs must display a warning label on the packaging covering no less than 30% of the surface area, indicating that the substance is addictive and harmful to health. If a product does not contain nicotine, the manufacturer must indicate on the packaging that the product may still be harmful to health.

The document also includes a list of banned ingredients that are prohibited for use in manufacturing smoking blends. The prohibited list includes aromatic substances made from camphor wood, soap bark, centipede root, sawdust, and others. Additionally, the use of birch and juniper oil, tar, camphor oil, and bitter almond oil are also prohibited.

Reference:

Rosstandart approves new standard for tobacco-free hookah blends.