Read articles from Europe

March 03, 2025 by clivebates.com

The Danish government plans to cap nicotine pouches at 9 mg starting in July 2025, with full implementation by April 2026. In response, concerns have been raised that the measure will fail to protect youth while harming adult smokers who need higher nicotine levels to switch successfully. Most young users already consume less than 9 mg, meaning the limit won’t reduce youth uptake. Additionally, some young people who might otherwise smoke benefit from switching to pouches. Furthermore, adults' improved health and well-being positively impact their families, indirectly benefiting youth.

March 03, 2025 by gfn.tv

Belgium has become the first country in Europe to ban disposable vapes, but will this actually have an impact on youth vaping rates, or will it just reduce access to safer nicotine products for millions of adults who smoke in Belgium? Joining us today is Alberto Gómez Hernández, Policy Manager at the World Vapers' Alliance, to dissect Belgium's vaping crackdown and the impact this could have on adult vapers.

March 03, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Finland plans to forbid most nicotine pouch flavors, only allowing menthol and mint, as part of a revised Tobacco Act. Nicotine content in pouches will be limited, sales to minors banned, and packaging controlled. An earlier version of the law had allowed more flavors but was scrapped due to favoritism allegations. A new bill must be approved by Parliament by March 20, with a transition period for compliance. Fimea reclassified nicotine pouches under the Tobacco and Chemicals Acts, rather than as medicinal products. The government's aim is to regulate pouch sales to prevent youth use and illegal trade under Prime Minister Petteri Orpo's program.

February 28, 2025 by filtermag.org

France banned disposable vapes, following Belgium, to reduce youth vaping and pollution. The law includes nicotine pouches, sparking controversy among harm reduction advocates. Proponents argue that disposables help marginalized groups quit smoking, criticizing the decision for lacking scientific basis. The ban could push ex-smokers back to tobacco due to limited alternatives. France's move aligns with EU anti-tobacco harm reduction trends, with other countries also restricting vaping products. Critics worry about the impact on smoking cessation efforts and public health in France, questioning the authorities' motives. The ban ignores the success of harm reduction methods in other countries and risks undermining progress.

February 28, 2025 by news-medical.net

Vaping during pregnancy poses risks to fetal lung development due to nicotine, oxidative stress, and inflammatory effects. E-Cig aerosols contain toxins that can harm newborns, impacting lung growth and increasing the risk of respiratory issues. With up to 15% of pregnant women using E-Cigs, urgent research is needed to understand its long-term effects. Nicotine exposure alters lung development pathways, while solvents and flavors contribute to lung damage. Preventative measures include cessation programs and stricter regulations. Awareness campaigns are crucial to address misconceptions about E-Cig safety and protect infant respiratory health.

February 27, 2025 by betterretailing.com

Swedish bioceramic company Emplicure has launched its new nicotine pouch brand, Klar, in the UK, now available to independent retailers through Nisa, Appleby Westward, and Aquavape. Klar uses Seratek technology to provide a stronger nicotine "kick" while reducing overall nicotine consumption. The pouches are smaller than standard options and come in Mint and Citrus flavors, with strengths of 3mg (Regular), 6mg (Strong), and 9mg (Extra Strong). Initially introduced in Sainsbury’s, Moto outlets, and online, Klar is now expanding its availability. Tomas Hammargren, Klar’s chief risk reduction officer, emphasized that the product offers a more efficient and controlled nicotine experience using advanced bioceramic technology.

February 27, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com

France, after banning disposable e-cigarettes, informed the European Commission of its upcoming ban on nicotine pouch sales, following other countries like Austria, Belgium, and Germany. The move was prompted by concerns over new tobacco products' impact, leading to regulatory action. The European nicotine pouch market is projected to grow to €1.06 billion by 2030. Despite being unregulated by the EU due to their lack of tobacco, discussions on taxing these products and revising the Tobacco Products Directive may take place under the Polish Presidency Council.

February 26, 2025 by euractiv.com

France has notified the European Commission of its decision to ban nicotine pouches, joining countries like Germany, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg in restricting these products. While still unregulated at the EU level, France's move follows its recent ban on disposable e-cigarettes. Regulators have been monitoring the industry, and growing health concerns prompted government action. A loophole in the 2014 Tobacco Products Directive allowed tobacco-free nicotine pouches to evade regulation, which major tobacco companies have exploited by heavily investing in these products.

February 26, 2025 by tobaccoreporter.com

France has officially prohibited the sale of pre-filled and non-refillable vaping devices to combat youth nicotine use and waste. The ban, not affecting refillable cartridges, was passed by unanimous vote in Parliament. Ex-Green Party Deputy Francesca Pasquini proposed the law after consulting with the EU, aiming to restrict products attractive to youth with sweet flavors and affordable prices. This action aligns with global worries about e-cigarette marketing as a safer alternative to smoking.

February 26, 2025 by rfi.fr

France banned the sale of disposable e-cigarettes, aiming to protect youth from tobacco addiction and environmental harm. The bill prohibits the sale of pre-filled devices without refillable options. This measure, following EU recommendations, targets the attractiveness of flavored, affordable e-cigarettes to young users. The move aligns with the EU's goal of a tobacco-free generation by 2040. Belgium was the first country to implement such a ban. The United Kingdom plans a similar prohibition. The author of the bill hopes France's action will inspire other nations to follow suit.