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Poland to ban synthetic nicotine pouches amid health concerns, health minister announces

08.11.2024 14:30
Poland is set to ban synthetic nicotine pouches, according to Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna, who announced on Friday that her ministry is working on legislation to prohibit the sale and distribution of these products.
Snus.
Snus.Photo: PAP/Jakub Kaczmarczyk

The proposed ban, which aims to address rising health concerns, is currently under review and will depend on the outcome of consultations, Leszczyna said in an interview with TVP Info.

Synthetic nicotine pouches, also known as nicotine snus, are small, tobacco-free packets containing high doses of nicotine that are placed between the gum and lip, allowing nicotine to be absorbed directly. While traditional tobacco-containing snus is already banned in Poland and the EU under an existing directive, synthetic versions have surged in popularity, especially among young people.

Leszczyna expressed concern about the health risks associated with these products, which offer even higher nicotine levels than traditional cigarettes. “This is a problem,” she stated, noting that the upcoming legislation will classify synthetic nicotine products strictly as medical items available only in pharmacies, similar to nicotine gums used for smoking cessation.

Polish health experts have warned that nicotine pouches pose severe health risks, including cancers of the mouth, throat, and pancreas, as well as cardiovascular issues. By treating synthetic nicotine pouches as a regulated medical product, Poland aims to curb their availability and mitigate associated health risks.

Leszczyna noted that she hopes the legislation will be ready by the end of the year.

(jh)

Source: PAP