Finland is at a crossroads when it comes to regulating nicotine pouches. A new legislative proposal aims to cap the nicotine content of smokeless products at 16.6 milligrams per gram, limiting a 0.7-gram pouch to just under 12 milligrams of nicotine. Additionally, the law would ban foreign online sales and restrict traveler imports, leaving Finnish consumers with fewer options.
While ensuring responsible use of nicotine products is crucial, overly restrictive measures could unintentionally drive consumers toward unregulated markets or back to more harmful alternatives like smoking or snus. According to a recent survey by the Finnish Grocery Trade Association (PTY), 86% of nicotine pouch users transitioned from smoking, vaping, or snus – a clear indicator that these products serve as effective harm reduction tools.
The same survey revealed that mint, menthol, fruit, and berry flavors are the most popular among users. Mint is a favorite across all demographics, while women tend to prefer fruit and berry options. However, the new proposal would restrict flavors to only mint and menthol, eliminating the variety that has made nicotine pouches a less harmful, appealing alternative for adults looking to quit smoking.
Strength preferences also highlight the importance of variety. Over half of regular users prefer nicotine pouches with strengths exceeding 9 milligrams per pouch. A one-size-fits-all approach could fail to meet the needs of these consumers, potentially pushing them toward illegal or foreign markets.
Beyond consumer choice, there’s a significant economic incentive to support the responsible sale of nicotine pouches. Kari Luoto, CEO of the Finnish Commerce Federation, estimates that the tax revenue from regulated nicotine pouch sales could generate up to €150 million annually. This is revenue Finland cannot afford to lose if users are forced to seek products abroad or through unregulated channels.
Banning popular flavors and imposing overly harsh restrictions could undermine harm reduction efforts and limit consumer access to safer alternatives. While it’s important to prevent underage use and ensure safety, nicotine pouches must remain available in a variety of flavors and strengths to meet the needs of adult consumers.
By striking the right balance, Finland can support public health goals, safeguard consumer choice, and retain valuable tax revenues. Let’s ensure that harm reduction tools like nicotine pouches remain accessible, effective, and appealing to those looking to leave more harmful habits behind.
Join the conversation and advocate for thoughtful regulation that supports harm reduction and consumer freedom!
UZ 
EN 
UK 
FI 
FR 
DE 
SV