Read articles from North America

January 05, 2026 by jamanetwork.com

When e-cigarettes first appeared, many public health professionals saw them as a potential tool to help people who smoke transition away from combustible cigarettes to a less harmful source of nicotine. While this approach worked for some individuals, aggressive and risky marketing strategies contributed to a surge in vaping among young people. Now, a new effort from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that the agency may be shifting its harm-reduction strategy toward another product: nicotine pouches.

December 17, 2025 by reason.org

Washington state implements harm reduction policies for opioids and HIV prevention but contradicts this approach by imposing a 95% wholesale tax on nicotine pouches, potentially hindering smokers from switching to a safer alternative to cigarettes. The tax may lead to unintended consequences such as continued cigarette use. Unlike tobacco, nicotine itself is not carcinogenic, thus taxing all tobacco products equally, including safer options, may not be beneficial for public health. Evidence from Sweden demonstrates the effectiveness of low-risk nicotine alternatives in reducing smoking rates. Taxing nicotine products indiscriminately could impede smoking cessation efforts, particularly for low-income individuals. Washington's taxation strategy contrasts with successful harm reduction practices, raising concerns about its effectiveness.

December 12, 2025 by reuters.com

Mexico’s Senate has approved major legal reforms that introduce harsh penalties—up to eight years in prison and fines of up to 226,000 pesos—for producing or selling vapes and e-cigarettes. The pro-government majority passed the changes to the General Health Law, and the bill now only needs President Claudia Sheinbaum’s signature, which she is expected to give. Critics argue the measures are excessively restrictive.

December 09, 2025 by washingtonexaminer.com

President Trump's efforts to reduce Chinese vape imports recorded a decrease from April to June, but a surge in July to October. Despite U.S. import declines since 2023, Chinese export data revealed a steady increase. Conflicting trade records show illicit vapes dominating the market, while efforts continue to curb their sale. Possible explanations include underreported imports and deceptive tactics by manufacturers. Investigations unveiled networks aiding illegal vape flow into the U.S. Officials seized significant amounts of illicit vapes, yet the total imported remains unaccounted for. Ongoing efforts to combat this issue involve increased enforcement actions and coordination between government agencies. The FDA and CBP play significant roles, with allocated funds for e-cigarette enforcement.

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 washingtontimes.com

Less than a year into his second term, President Trump is facing the consequences of decisions made during the Biden years, especially visible in the crisis of the illicit nicotine market. Currently, up to 85% of vaping devices sold in the U.S. are illegal because they have not received FDA authorization. Around 9 in 10 products have never undergone full FDA review, have not been approved for sale, or are stuck in the agency’s backlog. The ingredients and manufacturing processes of devices that avoid FDA oversight remain unknown.