Health authorities concerned over ‘toxic, addictive’ nicotine product
July 09, 2025 by timesofmalta.com
Health authorities concerned over ‘toxic, addictive’ nicotine product
Health authorities in Malta are concerned about the rising popularity of unregulated nicotine pouches among young people. The product poses health risks such as addiction and serves as a potential gateway to tobacco use for children. These concerns will be addressed in the forthcoming Tobacco Control Strategy 2025-2030. Nicotine pouches are sold in colourful containers with various flavors and nicotine strengths, commonly found in small stores and bars. While some users believe it helps cut down on smoking, authorities worry about its widespread availability and the misconception that it is less harmful than tobacco. The product's unregulated status raises concerns about its impact on public health.
22.90% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 106,000 current smokers in Malta.
SOURCE: GSTHR
