Media Watch: Convenience Store Giants Challenge Health Canada’s Nicotine Pouch Rules
October 08, 2024 by daily-pouch.com
Media Watch: Convenience Store Giants Challenge Health Canada’s Nicotine Pouch Rules
Convenience store giants are challenging Health Canada's new rule restricting nicotine pouch sales to pharmacies, fearing it may fuel black markets. The shift favors harm reduction strategies, akin to successful models in Sweden, while critiquing Canada's approach as overly restrictive. Critics argue that bans on flavors and limited sales locations hinder harm reduction efforts. Restricting sales to pharmacies could lead to illicit trade, safety risks, and tax losses. Advocates of a pragmatic, education-focused approach urge regulatory flexibility to balance youth protection and adult access. Proponents stress the need for rational regulations to address smoking-related harm effectively without stifling alternatives.
11.40% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 3.6 million current smokers in Canada 13.70% of men are current smokers but only 9.20% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
