Karl Fagerström, a Swedish researcher and inventor, founded Niconovum for smoking cessation, creating tobacco-free nicotine pouches. Despite public health interest waning, harm reduction advocates emphasize safer nicotine consumption alternatives. In Sweden, smokeless products are popular, prompting tobacco harm reduction support. In the US, former FDA commissioners suggest promoting noncombustible nicotine products. Small companies face challenges in gaining FDA approval, unlike in Sweden where regulations are more flexible. Public health debates the efficacy of harm reduction approaches, acknowledging the addictive nature of nicotine products. The tobacco industry's role in harm reduction efforts remains controversial.

Swedish Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson has rejected an EU proposal to use revenue from increased tobacco taxes to fund the next long-term EU budget, calling it “completely unacceptable.” The idea, mentioned in a German parliamentary document, suggests new funding sources like levies on tobacco and electronic waste for the 2028–2034 budget. Although not yet confirmed by the European Commission, pressure is mounting from at least 15 EU countries to raise tobacco taxes. The Commission is reportedly considering a 139% tax increase on cigarettes and higher taxes on e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco.

Research reveals e-cigarettes are linked to increased risk of chronic lung disease, especially for current and former users. The study analyzed observational data from various countries and found that current users have a 48% higher risk, while former users face an 84% higher risk of COPD. However, causation is not confirmed, and findings could be influenced by factors like smoking history. Transitioning from traditional cigarettes to vaping involves risks, and further longitudinal research is recommended to understand the long-term effects of e-cigarette use on lung health. Public health guidance should aim to balance smoking cessation benefits with potential respiratory harm from vaping.

The popularity of vapes as a healthier alternative to cigarettes is waning as studies reveal health hazards. Recent research showed high levels of heavy metals in vape mist, raising concerns about heart, lung, and brain impacts. Funding cuts for anti-vaping programs and limited data on long-term effects add to worries. Understanding the full extent of vaping risks is hindered by the relationship between vaping and cigarette use, especially among teens and young adults. Despite being used by a small percentage of adults, vaping rates among high school students remain higher.

Smoking and vaping rates among young Australians, particularly in the 18 to 24 age group, have surged despite a ban on vapes. Data shows 28% engage in smoking or vaping, with significant increases seen within a year. Vaping rates are at 20.5%, while cigarette use also rose. The ban on vapes has not curbed usage, leading to concerns of a shift to illicit tobacco products. Organized crime is thriving due to the rise in black market tobacco sales. Efforts to combat non-therapeutic vaping have had unintended consequences, with young adults being disproportionately affected. Illicit vape sales now outnumber legal ones in Australia.

Health authorities in Malta are concerned about the rising popularity of unregulated nicotine pouches among young people. The product poses health risks such as addiction and serves as a potential gateway to tobacco use for children. These concerns will be addressed in the forthcoming Tobacco Control Strategy 2025-2030. Nicotine pouches are sold in colourful containers with various flavors and nicotine strengths, commonly found in small stores and bars. While some users believe it helps cut down on smoking, authorities worry about its widespread availability and the misconception that it is less harmful than tobacco. The product's unregulated status raises concerns about its impact on public health.