Blowing smoke: Big Tobacco is getting a whole new generation hooked on nicotine
October 25, 2024 by theglobeandmail.com
Blowing smoke: Big Tobacco is getting a whole new generation hooked on nicotine
Zonnic, a nicotine pouch, was marketed in Canada by Imperial Tobacco as a smoking cessation aid without explicit warnings. Health Canada approved it despite concerns about youth access. The government issued a ban on non-mint flavors and restricted sales to pharmacies in response to underage use. Meanwhile, smoking rates decline as tobacco companies pivot to alternative products. Industry efforts to present these products as harm reduction tools are scrutinized, with critics cautioning about potential addiction risks and marketing to new users. Settlement talks between provinces and tobacco companies could reshape the industry's future. BAT aims to transition to non-nicotine ventures, anticipating a shift away from traditional tobacco products.
12.50% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 3.9 million current smokers in Canada 14.80% of men are current smokers but only 10.20% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR