Nicotine pouches are small bags of nicotine that are placed under the lip. They are widely sold in most supermarkets in the UK. However, while the government prohibits the sale of cigarettes and e-cigarettes to those under 18, the regulation of nicotine pouches is different.
Smoking and Health (Ash) has stated that the lack of regulations is like the "Wild West". Nicotine pouches are not regulated under rules governing tobacco or e-cigarette products, nor are they considered medical products. Hazel Cheeseman, from the anti-smoking charity Ash, told the BBC that better legal regulation is needed - including banning free samples and sales to those under 18, introducing strength limits, and restricting marketing for small pouches.
The company operates within legal boundaries," she added. "There are extensive promotional activities, and it is impossible to know whether they have been sold to individuals under the age of 18. We need a regulatory framework that covers all nicotine products." These small pouches come in various flavors, a pack of 20 typically sells for £6.50.
Several leading brands have already introduced age restrictions and warning labels on their packaging.
Nicotine pouches are a type of smokeless tobacco product that is similar to snuff. They are primarily used in Norway and Sweden, with Sweden being the only legal European Union (EU) country. Snuff contains tobacco and is illegal in the UK and other EU countries. Mark Oates, a 32-year-old former smoker, founded the Snuff and Nicotine Pouch Users Association and agrees to the regulations being reviewed. However, he adds, "We're not going to get rid of people who use nicotine. People are always looking for things that make them happy.
Reem Ibrahim, a 20-year-old from London, has also used nicotine pouches to quit smoking and found them helpful due to their ease of use. However, she notes that many people feel "confused" about them and believes that more people should be made aware of their existence. "Since using them, I have been able to quit smoking completely," she stated.
Nasal allergy and nicotine pouches sold in Sweden.
New data from Ash reveals that there are very few users of nicotine pouches in the UK.
According to a survey of 13,000 individuals, approximately 1 in 25 people have tried nicotine pouches, with those aged 18-24 having the highest awareness at 45%. The Department of Health and Social Care stated that they will be further examining the impact of nicotine pouches, including commissioning an expert committee to investigate the risks. The Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment (COT) will release a report later this autumn.
Dr. Leonie Brose, a reader in nicotine research at King's College London, has agreed that current regulations should be reviewed. She said, "If you are a smoker, it's a good idea to switch to something else, but if you've never smoked before, using nicotine is not a good idea because it can be addictive and potentially lead to dependence.
Dr. Brose emphasized a recent study conducted by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment on nicotine pouches. The study found that certain demographic groups are at risk of nicotine addiction and are concerned about increased heart rate and blood pressure associated with nicotine use. However, the study's conclusion was that completely quitting smoking and switching to nicotine pouches may reduce health risks for smokers.
Nordic Spirit, one of the largest nicotine pouch suppliers in the UK under Japan Tobacco International (JTI), has welcomed calls for increased regulation of nicotine pouches. A spokesperson for the company, Nicky Small, told BBC that they have already established a self-regulation framework which manages product marketing and restricts usage to individuals over 18 years old.
She defended its presence during major summer holidays this year, where samples were being given away for free, stating that it was a way for existing adult smokers, e-cigarette users, or nicotine users to learn more about the product.
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