When Mutual Recognition Becomes Optional
July 10, 2026 by pouchforum.eu
When Mutual Recognition Becomes Optional
The Commission's response to the French nicotine pouch ban overlooking internal market principles is concerning. Mutual recognition allows products lawfully sold in one EU country to be sold in another. However, the Commission's approval of France's ban on oral nicotine products contradicts this. Nicotine pouches are considered less harmful than cigarettes, as evidenced by the FDA's reviews. The ban disregards scientific evidence and treats pouches as equally risky as cigarettes, which is not supported. Better regulation, proportionality, and evidence-based policies are needed. France's ban challenges EU principles, and the Commission should reassess its stance to protect consumer access to lower-risk alternatives.
