Read articles from Canada

January 21, 2026 by filtermag.org

Banning vape flavors can lead to increased cigarette sales, as shown by a study in Canada. Research demonstrates that restrictions on vape flavors backfire, causing a spike in cigarette purchases. Despite strict tobacco laws, flavor bans have proven counterproductive. Experts highlight the substitution effect between vapes and cigarettes, emphasizing the need for evidence-based public health policies. Advocates urge policymakers to consider the unintended consequences of flavor bans, which can undermine harm reduction efforts and public trust in health authorities. Calls for a science-based approach to regulating nicotine products aim to protect access to safer alternatives and prevent harmful outcomes.

January 16, 2026 by mb.com.ph

A Canadian study reveals that cigarette sales increased post-vape flavor bans, aligning with prior U.S. observations. Such bans, aimed at reducing youth vaping, could lead to smokers switching back to cigarettes. The study showed a significant drop in flavored vape sales alongside a spike in cigarette sales. This trend underscores the substitution effect between the two products. While bans can impact smoking habits, evidence suggests they may not decrease nicotine consumption. Policymakers must weigh the unintended consequences of flavor restrictions, especially in relation to youth and smoking trends.

January 16, 2026 by reason.org

Research indicates that banning flavored e-cigarettes can lead to increased sales of traditional cigarettes, undermining public health goals. A study examined Canadian data from 2018-2023, showing that flavor restrictions boosted cigarette sales by nearly 10%. When provinces eliminated flavored e-cigarettes from common outlets, cigarette sales rose significantly. Despite the dangers of smoking, e-cigarettes are considered safer. Past studies suggest flavor bans increase cigarette purchases and youth smoking. Canada and the U.S. have strict tobacco regulations, with both countries experiencing significant smoking-related deaths.

December 15, 2025 by 100milefreepress.net

B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma announced the province's civil claim against JUUL, alleging the company targeted youth with addictive products. Premier David Eby aims to hold JUUL accountable, comparing it to actions against tobacco and opioid companies. Filed under the Vaping Product Damages and Health Care Costs Recovery Act, the claim accuses JUUL of contributing to a public health crisis. The move is supported by lawyer Rob Cunningham from the Canadian Cancer Society. The province seeks to recover public health costs and holds other manufacturers accountable. Tough action follows success in reducing smoking rates, with JUUL targeted due to existing lawsuits and evidence.

December 05, 2025 by canadianaffairs.news

Health Canada's regulations have pushed nicotine pouches behind pharmacy counters, leading consumers like Kaden Desmarais to find alternative sources. Desmarais criticizes the confusing rules and prefers online sellers or Indigenous reserves for purchases. Health Canada's restrictions aim to control nicotine pouch sales and access, with only Zonnic approved for sale. The agency's move to require sales through pharmacies has sparked debate on the accessibility of cessation products. Imperial Tobacco Canada stresses the importance of pouches as a therapy, yet some public health groups raise concerns. The rules have prompted Canadians to seek pouches through various channels, raising concerns about organized crime involvement.

December 04, 2025 by cbc.ca

Researchers at UBCO warn that TikTok videos glamorizing nicotine pouch use are shaping a trendy image, particularly among youth. Despite Health Canada authorizing these pouches for adult smoking cessation, they're off-limits for under-18s. Dr. Laura Struik's analysis of 250 videos, totaling nearly 2 million shares, highlights how users portray pouches as seamless with daily life. The videos fail to address potential health risks like gum recession and heart problems from prolonged use. Struik suggests involving young people in policy discussions about these products. Health Canada is enforcing regulations on approved pouch brands due to concerns about unauthorized sales to minors.

December 04, 2025 by cbc.ca

Researchers at UBCO warn that TikTok videos glamorizing nicotine pouch use are shaping a trendy image, particularly among youth. Despite Health Canada authorizing these pouches for adult smoking cessation, they're off-limits for under-18s. Dr. Laura Struik's analysis of 250 videos, totaling nearly 2 million shares, highlights how users portray pouches as seamless with daily life. The videos fail to address potential health risks like gum recession and heart problems from prolonged use. Struik suggests involving young people in policy discussions about these products. Health Canada is enforcing regulations on approved pouch brands due to concerns about unauthorized sales to minors.

December 02, 2025 by rebelnews.com

Nicotine pouches causing controversy in Canada due to harm to children, monopolies, rising black markets, and restricted industry regulations. Pouches, alternative to cigarettes, contain nicotine but lack full health understanding. Despite health risks, popular demand prompted growth. Regulators approved Zonnic by Imperial Tobacco as a nicotine replacement therapy. With minimal existing restrictions, critics pushed for tighter laws to protect youth. In 2024, Health Canada began stringent regulations, limiting sales to pharmacies and mint flavor only. While criticized for monopoly control, government action sought to limit accessibility but did not ban sales to minors. Pharmaceutical industry is scrutinized less for harmful products compared to tobacco industry.

December 01, 2025 by thetyee.ca

Quitting smoking is a challenging process that often requires appropriate support and effective tools. A recent recommendation from the legislature’s budget committee advises the government to consider expanding access to Health Canada–approved nicotine pouches as a smoking cessation aid. This recommendation appears in the committee’s report based on 16 public meetings and online submissions. The proposal would address last year’s policy change that placed Zonnic, the only approved nicotine pouch, behind the pharmacy counter. The hope is that the B.C. government will move forward with implementing this adjustment.

November 26, 2025 by thefirebreak.org

Maria Papaioannoy, a Canadian advocate for safer nicotine products, exposes the FCTC's closed-door decision-making at COP11, resembling a belief-driven system. GATC enforces FCTC policies aggressively. Concerns arise as policies seem to protect tobacco, hindering harm reduction. Canada is being used as a testing ground, shifting focus to nicotine control. Provinces like British Columbia and Quebec are influenced, impacting public health. Advocates call for transparency, evidence-based choices, and respect for experiences with safer nicotine products. The push for dialogue, advocacy, and empowerment against restrictive policies marks the beginning of a movement for safer choices worldwide.