The European Union stands at a crossroads. As lawmakers work to balance public health priorities with fiscal responsibilities, nicotine pouches have become a fascinating test case that could reshape how we think about harm reduction policy. Recent leaked documents from the European Commission reveal three distinct taxation approaches under consideration—each with profound implications for public…
The recent French ban on nicotine pouches has triggered a wave of backlash from harm reduction advocates, public health experts, and industry stakeholders. With punitive penalties and sweeping restrictions, the law represents one of the most stringent measures on nicotine alternatives seen in Europe. However, the story is still unfolding—and resistance is mounting. Industry Backlash…
By Robert Sidebottom, Chair of Regulatory & Compliance Committee, GINN & Managing Director, Arcus Compliance As regulators across Europe increase scrutiny of novel nicotine products, the need for clear, enforceable, and science-based packaging standards has never been greater. That’s why the Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) is endorsing the work of their member Arcus…
At the Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN), we are committed to promoting science-based harm reduction, product responsibility, and ethical standards across the nicotine sector. While innovation and consumer choice are vital, they must always be balanced with a duty of care to public health, especially where youth appeal, misinformation, or excessive product strength are…
As novel nicotine pouches continue to gain traction across global markets, questions around their contents and safety remain top of mind for regulators, public health experts, and adult consumers. A comprehensive study published in the journal Drug and Chemical Toxicology helps answer one of the most pressing questions: What’s actually inside these tobacco-free pouches? 🧪…
🌅 *Join us in Dubai for an unforgettable evening!* 🌅 📍 *The St. Regis Hotel, The Palm* 📅 *Friday, 20th June* 🕕 6-10pm 🎯 *GINN Get Together* We’re bringing together industry leaders and innovators for an exclusive evening of insights, networking, and celebration. *What’s in store:* ✨ Hear from our dynamic members *CAMO* and *CLEW*…
The Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) is honored to welcome Dr. Nveed Chaudhary as Chair of our Science and Standards Committee—a role central to guiding our mission for credible science, responsible innovation, and global public health advancement. Dr. Chaudhary brings more than 20 years of leadership at the intersection of science, regulation, and public…
France’s recent law banning nicotine pouches has become one of the most extreme regulatory actions taken against novel nicotine products in Europe. The ban, passed with limited parliamentary debate, criminalizes the sale, possession, and use of nicotine pouches, regardless of product formulation or age of the user. 🔴 Harsh Penalties Mirror Criminal Offenses According to…
Poland’s Ministry of Health is advancing legislation to ban flavoured nicotine pouches and disposable vape products, aiming to curb youth uptake and reduce nicotine experimentation among non-smokers. The draft bill, expected to pass given the ruling coalition’s parliamentary majority, would limit pouch flavours to tobacco-only options. A Broader European Trend Poland’s move aligns with a…
As novel nicotine products evolve, so too do the molecules behind them. One of the newest and most controversial is 6-methyl nicotine (6-MN)—a synthetic analog of nicotine that has now been detected in certain vaping devices and oral pouches. This compound, structurally similar to nicotine but chemically modified with a methyl group, may increase potency…
As the European nicotine landscape continues to evolve, Poland has become the latest member state to advance a national regulatory framework for nicotine pouches. The proposed law—now progressing through parliamentary stages—seeks to impose restrictions aimed at protecting youth while introducing much-needed clarity to a category that has, until now, operated in a regulatory grey area.…
A newly updated systematic review and meta-analysis published in F1000Research delivers one of the most comprehensive evaluations to date on the relative risks of nicotine delivery products. The findings are timely—and critical—for public health officials, regulators, and harm reduction advocates working to reshape tobacco policy for the 21st century. 🔍 Study Overview Researchers reviewed 123…
Reports have emerged that the European Commission may be preparing a significant tax increase on safer nicotine alternatives—including nicotine pouches and vaping products—by mid-2025. Though not yet confirmed, the leaked plans have stirred concern across industry and public health stakeholders, particularly as EU Tax Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra has recently been touring member state capitals seeking…
In the fast-evolving landscape of nicotine products, a silent threat is gaining momentum across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA): illicit nicotine pouches. While this product category is still relatively new to the region, its rapid growth—especially in Saudi Arabia—has created both success stories and serious challenges. A Promising Start, Followed by Illicit Surge…
Governments often turn to taxation as a lever to reduce public health risks, curb nicotine use, and generate revenue. In principle, that makes sense. But having seen Australia’s approach firsthand—as a former Australian Federal Police officer and founder of the Tobacco Strike Team—I can tell you this: when taxation goes too far, the consequences are…
The Growing Challenge of Illicit Nicotine Products As nicotine pouches gain traction in the UK as a smoke-free alternative, I believe we’re approaching a critical policy crossroads. The decisions made today will determine whether this market grows under a responsible, harm-reduction framework—or falls prey to the kind of illicit chaos I witnessed firsthand in Australia.…
The European Commission and several EU Member States have formally reviewed the draft Royal Decree submitted by Spain which proposes modifications to Spain’s national legislation governing the manufacturing, presentation, and marketing of tobacco products and related products. This draft decree was formally notified to the Commission on January 24, 2025, utilizing the procedure established by…
As Scotland deliberates the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, the discourse surrounding nicotine pouches has intensified. Professor Linda Bauld, a leading public health expert, has weighed in on the matter, offering insights into the relative harm of nicotine pouches compared to traditional cigarettes and emphasizing the need for responsible marketing practices. Understanding the Harm Profile Professor…
The Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) is proud to announce the appointment of Joe (Youssef) Sakr as Associate Director for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). This exciting addition to GINN’s leadership team underscores our commitment to advancing harm reduction and nicotine innovation in a region that is beginning to embrace the potential…
Tim Phillips, Managing Director of TobaccoIntelligence, provided an overview with a frank assessment of the challenges—and opportunities—facing novel nicotine products under the EU’s evolving Tobacco Excise Directive (TED). The Tax Credibility Paradox Phillips underscored a unique irony: while taxation is often viewed as punitive, being taxed can actually confer regulatory legitimacy. “Without excise, regulators and…
As smoking rates remain stubbornly high across much of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), health authorities and policymakers are exploring new ways to remember duce the region’s tobacco-related disease burden. One such possibility—oral nicotine pouches—is starting to enter the conversation. A recent article from Economy Middle East raises the question: Could these smoke-free…
A new study highlighted by Medical Xpress raises important questions about the role of flavors in nicotine pouches—and how they may influence the product’s appeal and addictiveness. As nicotine pouches gain traction as smoke-free alternatives, understanding these dynamics is essential for responsible public health policy. Here’s what the research shows, and why balanced regulation—not panic—is…
A major shift had been proposed for Canada’s nicotine market. The federal Conservative Party recently announced plans to end the restrictive pharmacy-only rule for nicotine pouches, aiming to open wider access to these smoke-free products for adult consumers. However, with the Liberals looking set to retain power in the upcoming federal election, the future of…
A recent article by Griffith University’s Blurred Minds Academy raises concerns about nicotine pouches, suggesting that they are being marketed in a way that appeals to minors. While protecting youth is critical, this narrative misrepresents the purpose and regulatory framework surrounding these products—and risks derailing an important harm reduction strategy for adults seeking safer alternatives…
A comprehensive new report titled “Saving Lives Like Sweden” compares the radically different public health outcomes between France and Sweden in tobacco use and harm reduction. Released by the Second Focused Study (SFS-2N) network, this study makes a powerful case for how adopting or rejecting safer nicotine alternatives directly impacts national health. A Tale of…
In a significant move towards tobacco harm reduction, Greece has emerged as the first European Union member state to permit scientifically substantiated claims regarding the reduced health risks of smoke-free alternatives. This progressive stance is part of Greece’s comprehensive National Action Plan Against Smoking, which emphasizes harm reduction alongside prevention, cessation support, and protection from…
April 21, 2025 The Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) issues this response to The Sunday Times article published on April 20, 2025, titled “How pouches of pure nicotine became a teenage craze.” As an organization committed to public health, harm reduction, and regulatory clarity, we believe the article fails to reflect the scientific evidence,…
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking a groundbreaking step in redefining tobacco control by officially endorsing the use of less harmful nicotine products as part of its public health strategy. As reported by The National, this shift reflects a global momentum toward harm reduction—prioritizing science-based alternatives that help adult smokers transition away from combustible…
The closing session of EVO NXT Milan 2025 brought together a remarkable group of experts from across the novel nicotine industry to discuss one of the most pressing questions facing the category: how can innovation thrive under increasing regulatory scrutiny? Moderated by Robert Burton (Plxsur), the session featured insights from Geir Hammer (Den Norske Snusfabrikken),…
Reflexiones desde EVO NXT Milán 2025 | Moderado por Mónica Andrade Durante EVO NXT 2025 en Milán, GINN organizó una mesa redonda pionera en español que reunió a voces clave del ámbito político, regulador y comercial para debatir sobre la evolución del mercado de las bolsas de nicotina en España. Moderado por la Country Manager…
During EVO NXT 2025 in Milan, GINN caught up with Michiel Carmel of Clew for a candid and inspiring conversation about the evolving nicotine pouch industry—and why collective action is more essential than ever. Reflecting on the energy and camaraderie of the previous evening’s GINN Aperitivo, Michiel noted, “I thought last night was an amazing…
At EVO NXT 2025 in Milan, a standout session hosted by GINN brought together leading experts to decode one of the most complex challenges in the nicotine pouch industry: navigating the U.S. regulatory landscape. The panel, moderated by Dr. Sydney Hiller of Sanova, featured Rachel Schmidt (ALINC Consulting), Dr. Jessica Zdinak (AraC Science), and Chris…
At EVO NXT Milan, GINN caught up with Jacobo Truan Aguirre, Partner at EPPA and a seasoned regulatory strategist, to discuss what’s at stake for the nicotine pouch industry as European policies evolve. Known for his pragmatic yet principled approach, Truan didn’t hold back in his call for responsible standards, proactive industry engagement, and clear…
The Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) hosted a pivotal panel at EVO NXT Milan 2025, drawing together leading voices in regulation, public affairs, science, and consumer advocacy to tackle the complex interplay between innovation and regulation in the evolving nicotine landscape. The session, moderated by Wingle Group‘s Daria Votinova, featured industry experts Peter Beckett…
At a recent industry gathering, GINN sat down with Tautvydas Kviliunas, founder of Global Snus and the CAMO brand, to explore the evolution of nicotine pouches and the need for clearer communication across the category. Kviliunas, a leading voice in the European nicotine pouch space, shared his candid thoughts on consumer confusion, product formulation, responsible…
Insights from EVO NXT 2025, Milan The Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) hosted a powerful panel discussion at EVO NXT in Milan, bringing together experts from across science, compliance, and product development to address a crucial industry challenge: how to ensure quality and safety in novel nicotine products. Why a Code of Practice Matters…
Insights from Aron Byrne-Carter As the nicotine pouch category continues to expand, one key challenge remains front and center: helping consumers understand what they’re buying. In a recent conversation, Aron Byrne-Carter highlighted some of the biggest pain points facing both customers and retailers—and called for industry-wide action to make things clearer, simpler, and more consistent.…
Insights from the GINN Panel on Global Nicotine Industry Trends & Innovation At the Global Nicotine Industry Trends & Innovation panel during the GINN event in Milan, Monica Andrade De Orbe, GINN’s Country Manager for Spain, offered a compelling perspective on the evolving nicotine landscape in Southern Europe. With a focus on Spain, Andrade explored…
Governments around the world face a complex challenge: how to reduce smoking-related diseases while managing the regulation and taxation of nicotine products. A new briefing from the Global State of Tobacco Harm Reduction (GSTHR) makes a compelling case for how tax policy can support—not hinder—public health goals. Why Taxation Strategy Matters Historically, tobacco taxation has…
A confidential European Commission (EC) document, recently leaked, unveils a contentious proposal to impose substantial EU-wide taxes on nicotine pouches (NPs), also known as white snus. This initiative, driven by the Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union (DG TAXUD), has ignited significant apprehension among harm reduction advocates, economists, and industry stakeholders. citeturn0search0 Potential Economic and…
Australia’s approach to nicotine regulation has become a subject of intense debate, with critics arguing that its current framework has failed to distinguish between more and less harmful nicotine products. The sharp increases in tobacco taxes and a ban on consumer vaping have fueled an expansive black market, leading to criminal activity, regulatory gaps, and…
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently finalized regulations impacting nicotine pouches, marking a significant milestone for the industry’s growth and regulatory clarity in the region. These regulations, outlined by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA), set specific guidelines that manufacturers must follow to ensure compliance, consumer safety, and product integrity. Key Elements…
A Deep Dive into FDA Compliance, Scientific Strategy, and Behavioral Insights for Nicotine Pouch Success in the United States As the U.S. market continues to evolve, nicotine pouch manufacturers face an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. To help industry leaders prepare and strategize for market entry, GINN hosted a powerful masterclass, “Navigating the Introduction of Nicotine…
Recent research from Duke University School of Medicine has examined the role of artificial sweeteners in oral nicotine pouches and their potential effects on user behavior. The study, which analyzed popular nicotine pouch brands such as On!, Zyn, and Velo, found that these products contain significant amounts of sweeteners like acesulfame-K and sucralose. These additives…
Nicotine pouches have become an important tool in harm reduction, offering a smoke-free alternative to traditional cigarettes. Many veterans, who historically have higher smoking rates than the general population, have turned to these products as a way to transition away from combustible tobacco. However, recent legislative proposals in New York and other jurisdictions seek to…
Aligning Fiscal Policy with Tobacco Harm Reduction Goals The European Union is at a pivotal moment in shaping the future of tobacco and nicotine taxation. With discussions on revising Directive 2011/64/EU underway, policymakers have the opportunity to introduce a risk-proportionate taxation framework that aligns fiscal policy with public health objectives. This approach would create financial…
Taxation has long been a primary tool for tobacco control, designed to reduce smoking prevalence by increasing the cost of cigarettes. However, the emergence of novel nicotine products such as Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), Heated Tobacco Products (HTPs), and nicotine pouches challenges traditional taxation models. Policymakers now face a crucial decision: Should all nicotine…
France has officially banned the sale of nicotine pouches, a move that underscores the escalating regulatory battle over alternative nicotine products within the European Union. The decision, announced by French Health Minister Aurélien Rousseau, aligns with growing concerns from EU policymakers about the accessibility and potential youth appeal of nicotine pouches. However, this ban raises…
The European Union faces a defining moment in how it regulates tobacco-free nicotine products, particularly nicotine pouches. With some member states opting for outright bans while others seek a more balanced approach, the lack of a unified framework has created inconsistencies that threaten harm reduction efforts, consumer choice, and economic growth. As discussions on the…
The demand for nicotine pouches continues to grow across global markets, including Finland, where discussions about their regulation are gaining urgency. A recent article from Kauppa.fi highlights the pressing need for a responsible and supervised sales model to ensure that nicotine pouches remain accessible to adult consumers while preventing underage use and ensuring product safety.…
By Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) The South Australian Government’s ban on nicotine pouches, coupled with alarmist media narratives, distorts public understanding of these products. The recent article, “Everything You Need to Know About Nicotine Pouches,” presents nicotine pouches as a serious public health threat without properly assessing their risk profile compared to combustible…
The Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) has released its Member Code of Practice (CoP) to establish a comprehensive framework for the manufacturing and labelling of novel nicotine products. With regulatory landscapes evolving, GINN aims to ensure product safety, quality, and ethical practices, setting a standard for responsible nicotine innovation. A Framework for Responsible Manufacturing…
A BBC News investigation has shed light on the growing issue of illicit nicotine pouches in the UK, revealing the extent of unregulated sales and their impact on public health. The report highlights how some high-nicotine, unregulated pouches are being sold without proper safety labeling, age restrictions, or marketing controls. This raises concerns about youth…
The Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) is proud to champion oral health as a vital component of tobacco harm reduction. Through evidence-based research and actionable guidance, GINN is committed to reducing the burden of tobacco-related oral diseases and fostering healthier outcomes for communities worldwide. A Science-Driven Approach to Oral Health Tobacco use has long…
In Finland, nicotine pouches are subject to a specific taxation system that is tied to their strength. The tax is calculated based on the nicotine content per pouch, meaning that higher-strength pouches incur higher taxes. This system aims to discourage the use of high-nicotine products, promoting public health by making them less financially attractive. It’s…
The illicit nicotine pouch market is expanding rapidly, echoing the challenges faced during the early days of the unregulated e-vapor market. Without decisive action, this unregulated sector poses risks to public health, undermines harm reduction efforts, and creates an unfair playing field for compliant manufacturers. Understanding the root causes and addressing the issue with a…
A recent revelation from a leaked confidential document distributed by the European Commission’s consultant has sent ripples across the nicotine pouch industry. The document reportedly recommends a complete ban on nicotine pouches within the European Union, citing concerns over youth appeal, insufficient regulation, and perceived risks. This proposal has ignited significant debate among public health…
Norway is witnessing a profound shift in its approach to tobacco use, driven by consumer preferences and product innovation. The rise of snus, a smokeless, tobacco-containing product, has significantly reshaped the country’s public health landscape. This consumer-led movement demonstrates the transformative potential of harm reduction strategies and highlights the importance of providing safer alternatives for…
The rise of modern oral nicotine products, such as nicotine pouches and lozenges, represents a significant shift in the tobacco harm reduction landscape. These tobacco-free alternatives are increasingly being adopted by adult consumers seeking safer nicotine delivery options. However, with their rapid growth, global regulatory bodies face the challenge of establishing robust frameworks that balance…
We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Phil Hudson as the newest member of the GINN team. Phil will spearhead membership and outreach initiatives across the UK and European markets, bringing a wealth of experience and insight to our mission of advancing tobacco harm reduction and fostering innovation in the novel nicotine industry. A…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken a landmark step in tobacco harm reduction by authorizing the marketing of 20 ZYN nicotine pouch products. This authorization, granted under the Premarket Tobacco Product Application (PMTA) process, establishes a clear regulatory pathway for nicotine pouches, reinforcing their role as a viable alternative for adult smokers…
The growing popularity of nicotine pouches as a smoke-free alternative has positioned them as a pivotal tool in tobacco harm reduction. However, their rapid market growth has also drawn increased regulatory scrutiny, particularly in the European Union (EU). As policymakers deliberate over the future of these products, the question arises: Could nicotine pouches face stricter…
The rise of nicotine pouch use in Great Britain, while modest, signals a pivotal shift in tobacco consumption trends. According to a new study published in Nicotine and Tobacco Research by Dr. Leonie Brose, Laura Bunce, and Hazel Cheeseman, nicotine pouch usage has reached 5.4%. However, only 1% of respondents reported current use, suggesting that…
1. Executive Summary Safer nicotine products (SNPs), such as nicotine pouches, lozenges, gums, dissolvables and other reduced-risk nicotine alternatives, should not be regulated in the same manner as combustible smoking tobacco products and nicotine vaping products because they– • are smokeless and do not pose the same relative health risks; • readily contribute to a…
As the global conversation on tobacco harm reduction evolves, regulatory frameworks for novel nicotine products are under scrutiny. Broughton Life Sciences Ltd., a leading consultancy in life sciences, recently submitted comprehensive recommendations to the UK Parliament, offering a roadmap for establishing safety, quality, and compliance standards for nicotine pouches and other reduced-risk alternatives. Key Recommendations…
As nicotine products evolve, public health policies must adapt to reflect scientific evidence and advance harm reduction goals. Central to this evolution is the idea of risk-proportionate taxation—a fiscal framework that aligns tax rates with the relative health risks of different nicotine products. This approach not only supports harm reduction but also incentivizes smokers to…
As the U.K. Parliament advances the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, a key feature is the introduction of a licensing scheme for retailers of nicotine pouches and alternative nicotine products. This initiative aims to regulate sales and storage, ensuring public health and safety. What Retailers Need to Know 🔹 Dual Licensing Requirement: Retailers must obtain both…
As the UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill advances in the House of Commons, GINN is preparing to contribute its insights. We believe the regulatory framework must balance innovation with public health while ensuring consumer safety. Here’s what we propose: 🔹 Market Access: Introduce a clear and transparent notification process for manufacturers, requiring detailed disclosures of…
As the European Union considers new tax measures under the proposed revision of the Tobacco Excise Directive (TED), the focus on nicotine pouches highlights the growing debate over their regulation and taxation. This burgeoning segment within the nicotine market holds promise for harm reduction, but significant taxation could undermine its potential to encourage smokers to…
Nicotine and tobacco products exist on a spectrum of risk, ranging from the highest to the lowest health impact. This risk continuum provides a valuable framework for understanding the varying health effects of these products on individuals and populations, empowering people to make more informed decisions for their health. The High-Risk End: Combustible Tobacco Products…
Greece has emerged as a leader in innovative strategies to reduce smoking-related harm, reflecting its commitment to improving public health. Over the past few years, the country has introduced comprehensive measures to combat smoking while embracing harm reduction as a pivotal part of its national strategy. The National Action Plan Against Smoking In November 2019,…
Nicotine, widely known for its association with tobacco products, is also recognized as an approved drug by health authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO). In therapeutic contexts, nicotine plays a pivotal role in smoking cessation strategies, offering safer alternatives to combustible tobacco use. When delivered without the harmful effects of combustion, nicotine replacement…
At the inaugural session of GINN’s in-person panels, hosted by the Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN), key industry leaders gathered to address the evolving landscape of the nicotine pouch industry. This landmark event was not only a platform for sharing insights but also for delineating the path forward amid changing regulatory environments and market…
The 2024 Global Anti-Smoking Index, as presented by “We Are Innovation” highlights significant advancements in tobacco control and harm reduction strategies across diverse regions. While certain nations shine as leaders in this space, others lag behind, underscoring the urgent need for equitable and effective global tobacco policies. European Nations Dominate the Top 20 European countries…
Recently, I came across an update on Sweden’s progress that included fascinating insights from Professor Fredrik Nystrom.His perspectives were nothing short of captivating, particularly his insights on the metabolic interplay between nicotine and coffee. Inspired by his talk, I have begun reading his book, which challenges many conventional health norms with a refreshing scientific rigor.…
Sweden has made remarkable progress in the fight against smoking, achieving what many thought impossible—bringing its smoking rate to an impressive 5.3%. By combining innovative strategies with traditional tobacco control measures, Sweden has set a powerful example for the world. At the heart of this success lies the “Triple-A Innovation,” focusing on three key aspects:…
Congratulations to Suely Castro and Federico N. Fernández, CEO of We Are Innovation for organizing such an impactful event! It was an incredible experience to attend Leading with Innovation: Sweden’s Path to Smoke-Free, where we celebrated Sweden’s remarkable journey toward a smoke-free future. 🌍🎉 A special shoutout to the keynote and panel speakers: Sweden has…
Nicotine pouches, small sachets placed between the gum and lip to release nicotine without tobacco, have become a focal point in global public health policies. Countries are grappling with their potential as smoking cessation tools versus concerns about health risks and youth appeal. New Zealand’s Evolving Stance In 2020, New Zealand’s Labour government banned the…
Recent global trends indicate a growing inclination among governments to impose bans or stringent regulations on nicotine pouches. While these measures are often driven by public health concerns, they may inadvertently overlook the potential of nicotine pouches as effective tools for smoking cessation and harm reduction. France’s Prohibition on Nicotine Pouches In October 2024, France…
Dated: 27 August 2024 The Global Institute for Novel Nicotine (GINN) has issued a strong warning against proposed government restrictions on vape products, emphasizing that such measures could hinder progress in helping smokers transition to less harmful alternatives. As a newly formed organization advocating for harm reduction, GINN is committed to advancing innovation and evidence-based…
