The European Union is considering tightening regulations on nicotine pouches, sparking vigorous debate among regulators and health advocates about harm reduction within tobacco policy. 

Recent reports, including one from Politico, highlight the EU’s growing interest in regulating nicotine pouches. These products, introduced post the 2014 TPD-2 decision, lack harmonized EU regulation, primarily because they do not contain tobacco, a key component in traditional tobacco products.

Market analysis suggests a significant increase in demand for nicotine pouches in countries like Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Slovakia, and the United Kingdom between 2020 and 2021.

As the EU evaluates stricter regulations, stakeholders, including harm reduction advocates and public health experts, are voicing their opinions, making this debate a focal point for public health, industry dynamics, and consumer choice. 

Diverse regulatory approaches in the EU 

Across the EU, approaches to nicotine pouch regulation vary. The Netherlands, for instance, has banned all nicotine pouches, aligning them with tobacco products.

Belgium is considering a similar ban, contingent on further evidence about their role in smoking cessation. Both Belgium and The Netherlands still allow cigarrettes. 

Meanwhile, Finland and Hungary are adopting a regulated approach, recognizing the potential of these products in harm reduction. 

Advocacy for harm reduction 

Prominent advocates, including politicians like Johan Nissinen, Sara Skyttedal, and Charlie Weimers, are pushing for lighter regulations on nicotine pouches and e-cigarettes compared to traditional cigarettes.  

They argue these products offer safer alternatives for smokers, a viewpoint which reflects Snusforumet’s mission to promote informed discussions on tobacco policy. 

Impact of smoking rates and access to alternatives 

EUBarometer data shows a correlation between the availability of smoke-free nicotine alternatives and lower smoking rates, notably in Sweden and the UK. However, the UK, under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, is enacting stricter regulations on vaping, indicating a shifting stance on nicotine products. 
  

The Commission’s perspective 

The European Commission, under the leadership of Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, is approaching the popularity of nicotine pouches with caution, viewing them as a potential public health concern. The Commission is contemplating revisions to EU tobacco laws, which could significantly impact nicotine pouch regulation, as indicated in unconfirmed reports from Politico. 

“In light of the EU’s discussions on nicotine pouch regulation, we urge a focus on data-driven policies,” says Patrik Strömer, Head of Swedish Snus Manufacturers. “Sweden’s experience with snus demonstrates the public health benefits of safer alternatives. We’re advocating for EU policies that reflect this evidence, balancing health protection with consumer freedom.”