The Department of Health is examining a ban on nicotine pouches as part of measures to reduce the use of the substance among children and young adults, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) has said.
Nicotine pouches, which are widely available to buy in Ireland, are typically white and contain a powder made of the highly addictive chemical nicotine, flavourings and other ingredients. They are typically placed between a person’s lip and gum.
This year’s Health Ireland survey found 1 per cent of the population use nicotine pouches, with this rising to 3 per cent in the 15 to 24-year-old cohort. Men are more likely than women to use them, the survey said.
[ Nicotine pouches in schools: ‘This is heading towards epidemic proportions’Opens in new window ]
However, concerns have been raised about potential harms to health connected to the use of these products, with many schools and teachers noting use of these products among children.
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In recent years, the Government has taken several steps further to reduce the use of nicotine among the public.
The sale of tobacco to people aged under 21 years old will be banned from 2028, while legislation to end the sale of single-use, flavoured and coloured vapes is “nearing completion”, according to CMO Prof Mary Horgan.
The decision to introduce such a ban was made to reduce the “attractiveness and availability” of vapes, particularly among children and young people, said the department at the time.
Asked if there was a desire to extend this ban to nicotine pouches, Prof Horgan replied, “yes, very much so”.
“Ireland has been the lead in tobacco control globally. We’re particularly looking at tobacco pouches as part of any amendment of the current tobacco bill,” she said.
“So yes, it is a concern and it’s something that legislation would and should have an impact on when it’s brought in.”
Belgium, France and the Netherlands have all introduced bans on nicotine pouches, while other EU countries are introducing or considering tighter regulation around the products.
