Read articles from Europe

August 04, 2025 by ginn.global

France is at a pivotal moment in determining the future of nicotine pouches, a tobacco-free oral product increasingly used by adult smokers as a lower-risk alternative to cigarettes. In 2024, the French government took a prohibitionist stance, notifying a draft decree that aimed to ban nicotine pouches entirely, including their production, sale, possession, and use. Framed as a youth protection measure, the proposal triggered immediate backlash from scientists, harm reduction advocates, and members of Parliament who viewed the move as excessive and counterproductive.

July 30, 2025 by theguardian.com

Research shows a third of UK teen vapers may take up smoking, similar to peers in the 1970s. E-cigarettes act as a gateway to nicotine cigarettes, threatening the decline in teen smoking rates. The University of Michigan study, published in the Tobacco Control journal, examined intergenerational data from three UK teen cohorts. Factors influencing smoking risks were analyzed, with underage vaping identified as a significant risk for the latest cohort. Despite advancements in tobacco control and changing perceptions, vaping may reverse progress in curbing smoking among youth. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health warns of the harmful effects of nicotine addiction through vaping on young people.

July 30, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

According to Haypp, 23% of UK vape retailers are illegally selling disposable vapes following the ban. Mystery shoppers found violations in various UK cities, with London and Glasgow having the most offenders. Retailers used tactics like selling by the box or accepting cash only to make illegal sales. Concerningly, even high-street stores with online profiles were involved. The company suspects the actual number of violators to be higher. This mirrors the situation in Australia, where a similar ban led to a thriving black market. Haypp suggests stricter inspections and consumer education to ensure compliance with the ban and promote safer alternatives.

July 29, 2025 by filtermag.org

A proposed law in the UK may fine vapers up to £100 for using e-cigarettes at outdoor bus stops. This would expand current bans on vaping in public areas, aiming to discourage the habit. The rationale behind the law is debated, with experts arguing that passive vaping poses minimal risk. Critics fear the fine could unfairly impact low-income individuals and send negative messages about harm reduction. The focus shifts towards evidence-based solutions like education and regulation, rather than penalizing those trying to quit smoking through vaping. Opposition parties and industry representatives have voiced concerns over the potential legislation.

July 25, 2025 by tobaccoharmreduction.net

The European Commission's proposed revision to the Tobacco Excise Directive is criticized for targeting vaping products and safer nicotine alternatives, potentially increasing smoking rates. The taxing system could make these products more expensive than cigarettes, opposing harm reduction efforts. Scientific evidence proving the lower harm of alternatives is disregarded. By attacking harm reduction instead of combating smoking, the EU might unintentionally promote smoking and illicit trade. The UK's independent stance is highlighted as an opportunity to reject harmful policies. Embracing tobacco harm reduction is crucial for public health progress, requiring a rejection of the Commission's damaging proposals.

July 25, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Sweden’s smoking decline is credited to smokeless nicotine products, led by researcher Karl Fagerström. Niconovum pioneered tobacco-free nicotine pouches, aiming for a safer way to quit smoking. Public health has been slow to embrace harm reduction due to industry ties. Sweden acknowledges snus' role in reducing smoking. Experts advocate for noncombustible nicotine delivery for smokers. Regulating such products is costly and complex, hindering market access. FDA approval delays for harm-reduction measures have faced criticism, urging faster action. Public debates continue on the future of nicotine consumption and harm reduction, highlighting the need for regulatory changes to promote safer alternatives.

July 23, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

France has delayed its ban on nicotine pouches until August 25 due to objections from seven EU countries. The proposed ban would treat nicotine pouches as dangerous substances, with penalties of up to five years in jail for possession. Critics argue banning these safer alternatives could worsen smoking rates. In contrast, Sweden, a leader in harm reduction, saw success in reducing smoking by supporting alternatives. France justifies the ban as a means to protect public health, while opponents, including pouch manufacturers, highlight the pouches' low risk profile compared to traditional smoking products. The EU-mandated pause allows France to reconsider its plan by the new deadline.

July 21, 2025 by bbc.com

Teens misuse high-nicotine pouches causing health issues. Finn admits using them in school, affecting focus and health. Nicotine pouch use is on the rise, especially among the youth. The addictive pouches are easy to access and come in various flavors and strengths. There are concerns about their impact on gums, with potential long-term health risks. Despite being less harmful than cigarettes, they can still cause damage. Experts urge stricter regulations and warn of potential health hazards. Users like Finn and a student share experiences of gum damage and addiction. Research shows risks of gum disease and bone loss, highlighting the need for more awareness and regulation.

July 17, 2025 by independent.co.uk

Trading Standards warns about the availability of nicotine pouches for children due to regulatory gaps. These pouches, containing nicotine but no tobacco, come in various flavors and have raised concerns about appealing to young people. Although only a small percentage of 11- to 17-year-olds currently use them, there's a fear of increased usage without age restrictions. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to prohibit sales to under-18s and control flavors and placement. There are calls for swift implementation to protect children and close loopholes exploited by businesses. Trading Standards emphasizes the need for proactive regulation to address the issue promptly.

July 17, 2025 by theguardian.com

Nicotine pouches, marketed with sweet flavors and colorful packaging similar to sweets, are being sold legally to children due to regulatory gaps. While single-use vapes were banned in England to prevent youth use, there are no age restrictions for nicotine pouches. The Chartered Trading Standards Institute is concerned about the appeal of these products to minors. Legislation in the tobacco and vapes bill aims to restrict flavors, packaging, and advertising targeting children. Urgent action is needed to protect youth from the risks of nicotine pouches. The bill is in progress in the House of Lords, with a focus on preventing underage access and harmful marketing practices.