Council calls for regulation on nicotine pouch use among children
Research suggests their use is becoming more frequent among teenagers
Wiltshire Council says there is an urgent need for regulation on nicotine pouches that are being used by children and teenagers.
It follows research from charity Action on Smoking and Health (Ash), which found more under 18s are aware of the pouches, with a 5%rise in the last year.
Almost 4% of those polled by the charity said they had tried the pouches, which often come with sweeteners and flavourings, alongside the addictive nicotine.
They're frequently used as a substitute for tobacco.
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is currently going through Parliament which will ban the advertising and sponsorship of all vapes and other nicotine products (such as nicotine pouches) and ban all vapes and nicotine products (and non-nicotine vapes) from being sold to under-18s.
Cllr Clare Cape, Cabinet Member for Public Health, said it's something they're keeping an eye on, as well as calling for specific regulation to be brought in on their sale and strength.
She said: “We are closely monitoring emerging trends in tobacco-related products, including nicotine pouches. This includes particular attention to their growing use among children and teenagers.
“A recent UK-wide survey by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) found that nearly 4 percent of 11- to 17-year-olds, equivalent to around 210,000 children, have tried nicotine pouches. These products are currently unregulated and can legally be sold to minors.
“Nicotine pouches are addictive and often come in sweet flavours and brightly coloured packaging, making them particularly appealing to children. While they are likely to be less harmful than smoking, public health experts warn that early nicotine use can negatively affect brain development and increase the risk of future tobacco use.
“We support urgent legislation to regulate nicotine pouches, including setting a legal age of sale, limiting nicotine strength, and restricting youth-focused marketing. We also encourage parents to talk to young people about the risks. At the same time, we’re raising awareness and monitoring youth trends through education and school support.”