Read articles from United Kingdom

July 30, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

Disposable ban fails to stick as quarter of UK retailers break the law

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

“Infantile” UK Plan Would Fine People Who Vape at Bus Stops

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 21, 2025 by bbc.com

The rising use of nicotine pouches snus

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

Addictive nicotine pouches can legally be sold to children in shops

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 conveniencestore.co.uk

Trading Standards warns public about nicotine pouches being sold to children

Trading Standards pushes for rules to control addictive nicotine pouches sold to children post-vape ban. Pouches, mimicking candy, contain nicotine and appeal to youth. Lack of age restrictions enables easy access. The rise in youth awareness is alarming. The pending Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to combat this. Urgent action is needed to tackle this issue effectively. Retailers urge strong regulation. Although intended for adults, underage sales are prevalent, emphasizing the need for stringent age verification. While progress is slow, responsible retailers adhere to restrictions. Monitoring and enforcing age limits are essential to protect children.

July 17, 2025 by yorkpress.co.uk

Shops legally selling addictive nicotine pouches to children

Trading Standards officers found shops selling nicotine pouches disguised as sweets, raising concerns about their appeal to children. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to make selling these products to under-18s illegal and regulate flavors and advertising. The Chartered Trading Standards Institute calls for quick implementation of the bill to address the issue of marketing these highly addictive products to children. The Department of Health and Social Care supports the bill, highlighting the importance of preventing nicotine addiction in young people.

July 17, 2025 by theguardian.com

Nicotine pouches sold to children mimic sweets, says UK trading standards body

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.

July 04, 2025 by london-post.co.uk

Vapes Ban and the Legal Alternatives in the UK

Vaping has surged in the UK, with increasing regulations targeting illegal products. The country supports vaping as a smoking cessation aid but cracks down on non-compliant items. Legal alternatives include TPD-compliant disposables, pod systems, and open system kits. Options like the Hayati Pro Max and IVG 2400 pods provide satisfying, eco-friendly choices. Consumers and retailers are urged to prioritize legality and safety. Future trends may involve stricter regulations, emphasizing the importance of compliant products. Choosing legal vapes supports sustainability and long-term satisfaction while avoiding risks associated with illegal products.

July 03, 2025 by ampproject.org

Ketamine: Would making the drug class A stop Gen Z using it?

Vicky Unwin's warning against classifying ketamine as Class A stems from her daughter's fatal overdose. She advocates for legal regulation over criminalization of drugs. On the other hand, Dorset's PCC, David Sidwick, supports the move to Class A, citing a need for increased awareness and treatment resources. Ketamine misuse can lead to bladder damage, with a surge in usage among young adults. Parents like Unwin and Anne-Marie Cockburn advocate for harm reduction strategies and better drug education. Despite government concerns and potential reclassification, some feel more action is needed to address the growing drug issue among youth.

June 30, 2025 by swlondoner.co.uk

New data reveals the UK’s vaping boom

Vaping's popularity in the UK has soared, with users reaching 5.6 million in 2024. Concerns are rising due to health risks, e-waste, and fires, exemplified by Donna King's experience. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to create a smoke-free generation by 2027, as vaping and smoking cost billions. While vaping is seen as less harmful than smoking, the long-term impacts are still under scrutiny. Public awareness and safety measures, like charging precautions, are crucial. Ongoing research will shed light on vaping's full effects on health, safety, and the environment.