French Health Minister Geneviève Darrieussecq has announced plans to ban nicotine pouches, citing concerns about underage use.
In a recent interview with French newspaper La Parisien, Geneviève Darrieussecq said that a ban on the alternative nicotine products will be announced in the coming weeks.
When discussing the potential ban the Health Minister said:
“They are dangerous products because they contain high doses of nicotine.
“The marketing of these products is directly targeted at young people, and I hope that we can protect our young people.”
In June, twelve European Union health ministers, including France’s, pressured the European Commission to restrict nicotine products and also ban flavoured vapes.
Leading vape advocacy group, the World Vapers’ Alliance (WVA) has criticised the announcement, calling the proposed ban “counterproductive to public health”.
The WVA has also urged the French government to reconsider and prioritise science-based, harm-reduction policies over prohibitions.
Michael Landl, Director of the WVA, said:
“By banning nicotine pouches, Minister Darrieussecq is closing off an effective, far less harmful path for millions who struggle to quit smoking.
“Pouches have proven to help smokers transition away from cigarettes in other countries and are considerably safer.
“Rather than offering options, France risks pushing people toward smoking or the black market.”
Studies have shown pouches are among the least harmful nicotine alternatives available and are a viable smoking cessation tool.
By supporting rather than banning these products, countries can accelerate progress toward smoke-free societies, reducing smoking-related illnesses and deaths.