Philip Morris gets round Dutch flavoured tobacco ban

Philip Morris is bypassing the ban on flavored tobacco in the Netherlands by launching Levia, a nicotine product made from cellulose. Priced at €6.60 for a pack of 20 sticks, available in menthol and berry flavors, they are used in a vape-like device. Critics warn that although Levia is tobacco-free, it contains addictive nicotine, with unknown long-term health effects. Concerns arise as it may lead to continued smoking. The Dutch authorities cannot act due to current regulations but may change them soon. Trimbos research shows a concerning number of Dutch youth vaping and smoking, dispelling the idea that vaping deters smoking among youngsters.