Save Nicotine Pouches in the UK

Yes – undoubtedly, the importance of regulating nicotine pouches in tandem with vapes cannot be overstated. Such regulatory consistency is not just about preserving safety standards; it also plays a pivotal role in safeguarding consumers and aiding smokers in their journey to quit. Primarily, instituting a minimum age of sale for nicotine-derived products, set at 18, is paramount in preventing underage usage and fostering responsible consumption. This blanket age restriction should encompass all varieties of nicotine products, irrespective of their physical form or method of use. To bolster the safety net for consumers, I advocate the implementation of standards relating to the ingredients used in such products. Specifically, a limit of 20mg of nicotine per pouch could serve to maintain a higher safety threshold. On the packaging front, materials that feature cartoons or analogous imagery ought to be categorically prohibited. Such representations may be attractive to children and engender confusion regarding the nature of the product. In the same spirit, flavour names should steer clear of resembling candy or confectionery items. This measure would add an additional layer of deterrence, preventing younger demographics from experimenting with these nicotine products. Finally, it’s essential that consistency in the regulation of nicotine products remains a priority. This involves ensuring all nicotine-infused items meet the same safety and quality benchmarks, regardless of their form, while also continuing to provide a safer smoking alternative for adult consumers. As such, I emphatically call for the equitable and rigorous implementation of regulations that do justice to all parties involved.