The German tobacco industry has pushed for the legalization of nicotine packs as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes. Health experts and politicians warn of the potential dangers and worry about young people becoming addicted.
German tobacco industry pushes to legalize nicotine pouches
The German tobacco industry is actively pushing for the legalization of nicotine packs as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes. RP-online reported on Feb. 21.
Torsten Albig, managing director of external affairs at PMI Germany, said the products are legal in many other EU countries, and the German ban resulted in the loss of tax revenue and the government’s right to regulate them. He hopes the new German government will promote the legal sale of nicotine packs in shops to help adult smokers stay away from cigarettes.
In Germany, nicotine packs are not considered to be similar to tobacco products but are classified as food. Which cannot be sold in stores because it is not allowed to contain nicotine, but consumers can shop online from other EU countries such as Sweden.
Draws Criticism from Health Experts and Politicians
Albig called the situation “ridiculous,” noting that many kiosks sell black market products. He acknowledges the risks of these products but believes they are an effective alternative to harm reduction for smokers.
In addition to Philip Morris International. Other tobacco companies such as Japan Tobacco International (JTI) and British American Tobacco (BAT) are also calling for the deregulation of nicotine bag products. Still, the companies’ demands have been criticized by health experts and politicians.
Katrin Schaller of the German Cancer Research Center rejects the companies’ claims, arguing that they are simply trying to solve a problem of their own making. She noted that nicotine packs are not approved smoking cessation products like nicotine gum or patches and that their stylish appearance appeals primarily to young people.
Green MP Linda Heitmann warned that nicotine packs should not be seen as a public health boon by the tobacco industry because of their highly addictive properties.
