Scotland in the UK to Regulate Nicotine Pouches Under New Tobacco Control Measures

Key points:

The Scottish government in the UK plans to include nicotine pouches in its smoking control legislation: This decision is part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.

The policy background stems from public concern: previously, some companies were handing out free samples of such products at Edinburgh train station, raising concerns among local lawmakers.

The new legislation aims to expand regulatory powers by including "novel tobacco products" (such as heated tobacco and nicotine pouches) within the scope of control.

Scottish public health officials have confirmed that traditional "snus" is illegal in the UK, with the term now often used to describe nicotine pouches.

According to The Independent report on May 6th, the Scottish government has confirmed that nicotine pouches will be included in the UK's smoking control legislation. This decision is part of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aims to create a "smoke-free generation" by prohibiting anyone born after January 1, 2009 from purchasing any tobacco products.

Before the announcement was made, Scottish Members of Parliament (MSPs) raised concerns about the promotion of nicotine pouches in public places. In early 2025, a company was distributing free samples of nicotine pouches to the public at Edinburgh's Waverley train station, sparking public and policy attention.

Linda Bauld, Senior Public Health Advisor for the Scottish government, has pointed out that traditional snus, a tobacco product, is illegal in the UK. Currently, the industry and the public are using the term to describe nicotine pouches.

Bald said that although nicotine pouches are "significantly less harmful than smoking," they are still addictive. She emphasized that such products have "only entered the UK market in recent years," and legislative response is in the early stages.

"The practices we observed in Waverley are essentially marketing tactics, especially targeting younger demographics, which is a problem we must address."

Scotland's Public Health Minister Jenni Minto has announced plans to include heated tobacco and nicotine pouches in the legislative framework to ensure greater powers to reduce access to these products for both young people and the elderly.

Conservative Party health spokesperson Sandesh Gulhane expressed uncertainty about whether products like "snus" are fully covered.

"We see these products being distributed for free at Waverley station, which indicates that we do need to take further action in this area."

The Scottish government has recommended that parliament support the provisions in the bill related to local authority powers.