The government has pledged “careful consideration” when it comes to regulation surrounding nicotine pouches so as to not undo any work on reducing adult smoking rates.
In correspondence between lobby group, 20isPlenty and the government, the regulation of nicotine pouches was highlighted, with a focus on the impact any legislation may have on adult smoking cessation rates.
The 20isPlenty campaign calls for the government to introduce a 20mg cap on pouch strength which is believes is a “balanced, evidence-based measure” that will “ensure that pouches remain available as a harm reduction option for smokers who don’t vape or can’t quit with other tools”.
In a response from the Department of Health & Social Care, a spokesperson said:
“The Government is committed to ensuring that public health policy is evidence-based and proportionate. As you rightly point out, nicotine pouches are likely to pose lower health risks than smoking, because they do not involve inhaling harmful substances produced by burning tobacco, such as tar and carbon monoxide.
“However, due to their high nicotine content, fast absorption and their potential to be flavoured, nicotine pouches have a potential to lead to nicotine dependence. Young people are more susceptible to the addictive effects of nicotine as their brains are still developing. As such, they should never use these products. That is why the Government is concerned about the recent rise in the use of these products amongst young people, particularly amongst young men.”
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is currently progressing through Parliament and has completed committee stage. However, the government spokesperson added that the Bill currently already distinguishes nicotine products, including nicotine pouches, as their own category, separate from both Tobacco and Vaping Products.
The response letter added:
“To avoid unintended consequences on adult smoking rates, the scope and impact of any restrictions, including on nicotine pouches, will be carefully considered. To do this, the Department plans to consult on regulations as soon as possible next year. To support this, it regularly engages with trade bodies and the retail sector to ensure its regulations are appropriate.
“Regarding smoking cessation, there is currently limited research and evidence into the harms and use of nicotine pouches as a cessation aid. The Committee of Toxicity, as requested by the Department, produced a report on nicotine pouches, and found that nicotine pouches, if used as intended, may reduce the risks to smokers.
“The Department has commissioned further research into vaping and nicotine products through the National Institute for Health and Care Research. This includes a living evidence map collating international evidence on vapes and nicotine products, including their health harms, trends in use, and emerging evidence on cessation.
“The Department recently launched a call for evidence to gather evidence on a range of topics related to tobacco, vaping and nicotine products. This included questions on nicotine products, nicotine limits and ingredients, to ensure that all nicotine-containing products contain a safe and appropriate level of nicotine. The information collected will support policy development for some of the regulations made under the Bill.”
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