The World Health Organization has issued a warning about the rapid global expansion of nicotine pouch products, which are being aggressively marketed to adolescents and young people.
WHO notes that regulation in many countries is limited or absent, raising concerns about youth nicotine addiction and related health risks.
Nicotine pouches are small sachets placed between the gum and lip that release nicotine through the lining of the mouth, often containing flavorings, sweeteners, and other additives.
A recent report by insurance firm PolicyMe found that Gen Z Canadians use nicotine products like vaping, e-cigarettes, traditional cigarettes, and chewing tobacco more than other generations. Canadians aged 18 to 29 had the highest daily use of nicotine products at 7.3 percent, compared to five to six percent in other age groups.
In Canada, federal rules dictate that nicotine pouches can only be sold behind the counter at pharmacies, with only one brand, Zonnic, authorized for sale by Health Canada. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith recently called on Ottawa to relax these restrictions, arguing they are an unnecessary barrier for those trying to quit smoking while inadvertently making it easier for youth to access them.
The warning comes as the UK Parliament passed a bill in April that will permanently outlaw sales of tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009. Canada also became the first country in 2023 to require health warnings on individual cigarettes, but there is no indication of a similar ban on sales to those under a certain age.