Stories

At GFN25 in Warsaw, Paddy Costall hosts Dorrie Heemskerk and David Williams to tackle risk communication, smarter regulation without bans, and consumer-led tobacco harm reduction—from vapes and pouches to heated tobacco—amid WHO/FCTC headwinds and Europe’s tightening rules.

The World Health Organization warned on Thursday that lobbying by the tobacco, alcohol, and ultra-processed food industries is preventing governments from implementing health policies that could save lives. Next Thursday, during the UN’s annual meeting in New York, a special day will be devoted to addressing non-communicable diseases such as cancer and heart disease, which the WHO says are fueled by these products.

Donald Trump promised to save vaping. Twice. Once during his first term and again before winning the 2024 election. But in 2025, America’s vapers are feeling burned. Instead of delivering on his promise, Trump’s FDA staged the largest vape seizure in U.S. history while fast-tracking Big Tobacco’s nicotine pouches.

International health experts emphasize the UK's success in reducing smoking rates by promoting safer nicotine alternatives, such as vaping, resulting in significant health benefits and saving lives. The UK's approach, integrated into NHS services, has led to a remarkable drop in smoking rates, with positive impacts on public health. Similar success stories are seen in Sweden, Japan, and New Zealand. While vaping has helped millions quit smoking, ongoing regulatory discussions may jeopardize progress. To maintain the momentum towards a smoke-free future, experts urge continued support for these products rather than restrictions. The report projects significant future health benefits from embracing harm reduction strategies.

As cigarette sales decline and more adult smokers look for alternatives to cigarettes, smoke-free products are the next generation of innovation.

Cigarettes are everywhere. In gas stations, corner stores and vending machines. You can drive through half the outports in Newfoundland and Labrador and never worry about not finding a pack. Nicotine pouches on the other hand, are nowhere. Maybe at pharmacy counters if they happen to stock the right kind, and if you make it there before closing, and if you’re lucky enough they’re not sold out.

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, our host Liza Katsiashvili, Director of Operations at the WVA, sits down with Timothy Andrews, Director of Consumer Issues at the Tholos Foundation and a leading partner of the initiative Prohibition Does Not Work.

The European Commission has proposed that 15% of national tobacco tax revenues be redirected to the EU budget (2028–2034) under the “TEDOR” plan. This includes Sweden’s oral tobacco product snus, despite questions from Swedish conservative MEPs. Budget Commissioner Piotr Serafin confirmed no exemptions for any tobacco products, stressing equal treatment of member states.

Research found that non-menthol e-cigarette flavors attract youth and contribute to increased usage. These findings published in the British Medical Journal Open highlight the link between flavors, youth interest, and potential harm to developing brains. Fruit and candy flavors specifically reduce perceived harm and increase appeal. Researchers advocate for banning non-menthol flavors to curb youth e-cigarette use, emphasizing the addictive nature of nicotine and potential health risks. Studies also show flavor influence on adult usage. Overall, flavors play a significant role in attracting both youth and adults to e-cigarettes, impacting preferences, appeal, willingness to use, and product harm perceptions.

U.S. health officials are focusing on reducing youth vaping due to the popularity of e-cigarettes among young people. The Surgeon General's office unveiled a guide to address rising e-cigarette use in America's youth. Vaping is harming children's health, leading to nicotine addiction and potential gateway to smoking. Health officials emphasize the dangers of nicotine in vape products on brain development and overall health. Despite federal efforts, illegal sales of vaping products persist, fueled by targeted marketing to youth. The FDA is seizing illegal vapes and advocating for stricter enforcement to protect American children. Efforts to combat youth vaping include legislative action and unified initiatives.