Read articles from Europe

December 22, 2025 by theguardian.com

One in eight of 14- to 17-year-olds in Great Britain say they have used nicotine pouches

A survey revealed 1 in 8 teenagers aged 14-17 have used nicotine pouches, raising concerns about addiction. Although pouches don’t increase cancer risk, there are worries about nicotine dependence and oral health issues. Most teens obtain them from friends or stores without age restrictions. The UK plans to tighten regulations on sales to minors and decrease appeal through packaging and flavors. Notable brands include Velo, Nordic Spirit, and Zyn, leading to increased warnings from health experts about nicotine's heart and vascular toxicity. While some view pouches as less harmful than cigarettes or vapes, regulations aim to prevent youth addiction. The tobacco and vapes bill will address underage sales to safeguard public health.

December 22, 2025 by filtermag.org

A Rare Case of Open Debate on Tobacco Harm Reduction

Suely Castro raised the question of our responsibility to science and fairness in promoting safer alternatives like oral snus and nicotine pouches to reduce smoking-related deaths. Events promoting tobacco harm reduction face challenges from skeptics like Clive Bates, who debate the effectiveness of such approaches. Global debates on harm reduction policies, conference restrictions, and the importance of differential taxes on nicotine products were discussed. Experts highlighted the need for open dialogue, consumer input, and tailored approaches to reduce harm effectively. Encouraging a clash of ideas and pragmatic strategies is seen as crucial to saving lives in public health endeavors.

December 22, 2025 by independent.ie

Growing restrictions on vape sales making it harder for smokers to quit and driving others into hands of criminal dealers

Proposed ban on flavored vapes by the government may hinder smoking cessation efforts for adults while failing to address underage sales concerns. Health Minister's plan could impact thousands benefiting from flavored vapes to quit smoking. Proper regulation on underage sales is suggested as a more effective approach.

December 22, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Vape crackdown risks sidelining older smokers trying to quit

The UK's crackdown on youth vaping may impact older adults who rely on e-cigarettes to quit smoking. Research shows over-55s use vaping for cigarette cessation but the Tobacco and Vapes Bill could hinder their access to vaping tools. In a survey, 87% of adults over 55 started vaping to quit smoking, compared to 49% in 45-54 age group and 18% among 18-24 year olds. Older vapers report improved wellbeing and health benefits post-switch, emphasizing their serious approach to quitting. Advocates call for tailored protections, not total bans, to ensure older adults can access accurate information and make informed choices.

December 19, 2025 by irishexaminer.com

Enforcing proposed single-use vape ban may cost over €3m a year, Oireachtas research says

A ban on single-use vapes proposed by the Government may cost €3.1m yearly to enforce. This cost includes funding for 40 full-time HSE posts. The aim is to reduce vaping among youth, with potential public health benefits and impacts on the industry. The law will stop single-use vape sales in Ireland, targeting waste and environmental issues. The Government sees it as crucial for protecting children. The ban may affect industry profits, depending on consumer actions. The focus is on reducing youth vaping and any subsequent rise in smoking rates. Additional expenses are expected for further e-cigarette legislation enforcement.

December 19, 2025 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

UKVIA Responds to Evidence Call

The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) submitted a detailed, evidence-based response to the UK government’s Tobacco & Vapes Bill, emphasizing that regulation should support vaping as a tool for harm reduction rather than make quitting tobacco harder. They advocate for a simple, enforceable product-registration system, robust testing and manufacturing standards aligned with international best practices, and clear rules protecting adult access to flavors and products that help them quit smoking. UKVIA also stressed that enforcement should target illicit sellers and non-compliant imports, not responsible, compliant companies.

December 18, 2025 by europeanconservative.com

Smokers and Vapers Face Price Shock Under Brussels Tax Plan

Brussels plans a substantial tax increase on nicotine products in Europe that many governments claim was influenced by activists rather than elected officials. The draft proposes significantly higher taxes, with some nations seeing prices rise immediately. Concerns have been raised about the influence of activist networks like Smoke-Free Europe on shaping policy. Member States are dismayed at the lack of basic safeguards and transparency in the process. The directive, if implemented, could shape nicotine policy in the EU for the next decade, potentially undermining trust in EU decision-making and exacerbating divisions between member states. The debate reflects a larger question about who ultimately dictates public-health policy in Europe.

December 18, 2025 by europeanconservative.com

Smokers and Vapers Face Price Shock Under Brussels Tax Plan