France to Ban Nicotine Pouches Targeted at Teenagers

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France ban nicotine pouches

French Health Minister Geneviève Darrieussecq has announced plans to ban nicotine pouches in the coming weeks, citing their popularity among teenagers and the high doses of nicotine they contain. Darrieussecq described the pouches as “dangerous products” that can induce nicotine addiction and serve as a gateway to smoking, especially when used by young people rather than former smokers.

The minister expressed concern over the increasing number of calls to poison control centers from teenagers experiencing severe acute nicotine syndromes related to the consumption of nicotine pouches. She emphasized the government’s duty to prohibit the marketing of these products to protect young people.

In June, 12 EU health ministers urged the European Commission to introduce restrictions on nicotine products and ban flavored vapes. Companies have marketed nicotine pouches as a safer alternative to smoking, but Darrieussecq argues they can be just as dangerous.

Matthew Ma
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