Read articles from Sweden

April 30, 2025 by vejpkollen.se

The Swedish government criticizes Spain's plan to restrict nicotine pouches to 0.99 mg, considering it a potential ban that affects Swedish interests. Minister Benjamin Dousa emphasizes that while not health products, in areas where smoking is permitted, nicotine pouches should be too. Sweden's low smoking rates attributed to snus make the government advocate for less severe regulations. Spain's concerns about nicotine addiction are countered by Sweden's arguments for balance and measures like age limits. The government's strong stance defends Swedish products and stresses the need for proportionate EU regulations. Nicotine pouches' positive health impact compared to cigarettes is highlighted amidst EU-wide restrictions.

April 29, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

The Swedish government plans to challenge Spain’s proposed ban on nicotine pouches at the EU level by submitting a Detailed Opinion to delay implementation. Sweden argues that pouches should be allowed where smoking is permitted. France has a similar ban, but with even stricter penalties. Although Sweden is exempt from the EU's ban on tobacco-containing snus, this exemption does not apply to nicotine pouches. The Minister assured that Sweden will oppose any EU-wide ban on pouches as long as their government is in power.

April 10, 2025 by rollcall.com

In Sweden, efforts to become "smoke-free" by 2025 have led to a decline in smoking through the promotion of alternative tobacco products. The country's unique regulation of snus and nicotine pouches could serve as a model for the U.S. In both countries, there are debates on how to regulate these products, influence of political parties, and taxation strategies. Sweden has implemented tax changes to discourage smoking, while the U.S. faces complex federal, state, and local tax systems. Discussions also focus on capping nicotine levels in products. Regulation and marketing of nicotine pouches vary within the EU, impacting Sweden's membership.

March 21, 2025 by taxfoundation.org

The update to the EU's Tobacco Excise Tax Directive seeks harm reduction through taxing safer products less, potentially reducing smoking rates and illicit markets. Sweden's success in embracing alternative tobacco products and reducing smoking rates is a model for other EU countries to follow. ATPs like vaping and snus offer less harmful nicotine consumption options, driving public health benefits globally. However, stringent restrictions in some EU countries hinder harm reduction. An updated Directive should support less harmful products through reduced taxes, promoting public health. International businesses could shift focus to safer products, influencing global health trends positively. The EU must lead by example in harm reduction for tobacco policy worldwide.

March 18, 2025 by daily-pouch.com

In 2006, Action on Smoking and Health Director Deborah Arnott highlighted the safety of smokeless tobacco, challenging the EU ban on snus. Despite proven health benefits, the ban originated from unfounded fears in the UK, with Sweden being the exception. Sweden's use of snus led to significant reductions in smoking-related illnesses, contrasting with the EU average. Efforts to lift the ban have been hindered by political and regulatory obstacles, despite overwhelming public support. The EU's refusal to acknowledge the success of snus in harm reduction reflects a pattern of misinformation and misconduct. The evidence supports lifting the ban, underscoring the potential for saved lives across Europe.

February 05, 2025 by filtermag.org

Sweden has reduced smoking rates successfully through innovation, legislation, and consumer empowerment, achieving a smoking rate of 4.5%. The use of snus, a smokeless alternative, and modern nicotine pouches has played a key role. Lessons from Sweden's approach emphasize harm reduction and empowering individuals with better choices. While Sweden has Europe's lowest lung cancer rate, replicating their model globally could save millions of lives. Challenges exist due to bans on snus and nicotine pouches in EU countries, hindering harm reduction efforts. Ensuring access to information about harm and allowing informed choices could lead to further reductions in smoking rates. Sweden's progress continues with tax policies favoring safer nicotine products and aims to phase out cigarettes entirely.

January 24, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

A recent study published in BMJ Open shows a significant drop in smoking rates in Sweden since the 1980s, matched by a rise in snus usage. By 2022, only 4.5% of Swedes were smokers, with more women switching to snus than men. Sweden's pioneering approach to alternatives like vaping and snus has been credited for its success in reducing smoking. The study, based on surveys of over 13,000 people, highlights the impact of snus on smoking rates. Younger women showed the most significant shift from cigarettes to snus. Sweden reached its smoke-free goal well ahead of the EU target, with much lower tobacco-related health issues compared to the rest of Europe.

December 17, 2024 by daily-pouch.com

The TES article on snus explores the growing trend and controversies surrounding nicotine products, emphasizing the need for nuanced understanding. While caution about youth usage is warranted, balanced education and regulation are crucial for harm reduction. Media portrayal plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion, highlighting the importance of accurate information dissemination. Overall, a comprehensive approach to addressing concerns and acknowledging the potential benefits of nicotine pouches is essential for promoting public health. Striking a balance between vigilance and informed decisions can guide the integration of harm reduction tools in the future.

November 28, 2024 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

Sweden has become the first smoke-free country, with only 4.5% of adults smoking. Embracing harm reduction methods, such as snus and e-cigarettes, has led to significant health improvements. The country's approach, focusing on alternatives over prohibition, has resulted in lower tobacco-related diseases and reduced cancer rates. Smoke Free Sweden urges other nations to follow their evidence-based policies for a smoke-free future. Sweden’s success highlights the efficacy of harm reduction strategies and the importance of accessible safer nicotine products in reducing smoking rates and improving public health globally.

November 14, 2024 by mipod.com

Today, Sweden has achieved an incredible milestone, becoming the first nation to officially declare itself “smoke-free.” With just 4.5% of Swedish-born adults still smoking, the country has smashed the globally recognized 5% benchmark, reaching this landmark 16 years ahead of the European Union’s target. Sweden’s achievement shines a light on a pioneering public health approach that has enabled it to leave behind the EU average smoking rate of 24%, which is five times higher than Sweden’s.