August 22, 2204

Canadian Lung Association applauds action that will keep nicotine pouches out of the hands of children

As of August 28, nicotine pouches will be available only behind the counter at pharmacies across Canada. Only mint and menthol flavours will be available. And soon, packaging will be updated with a warning and statement of intended use.

These measures were announced today by federal Health Minister Mark Holland as part of a new ministerial order that will help to keep this product out of the hands of children and youth.

In 2023, Imperial Tobacco Canada’s Zonnic nicotine pouches became available at local convenience stores, sold beside candy and with enticing flavours and packaging. Because Zonnic had been approved under Canada’s Natural Health Products Regulations, there was no minimum age of purchase and, for the first time in modern history, a nicotine product developed and sold by a tobacco company could be legally sold to minors.

Last November, CLA joined several other national health organizations on Parliament Hill to urge the government to take swift and decisive action to correct this oversight that could give easy access to nicotine to a new generation of young people.

 “We could not be more pleased with the action taken by Minister Holland,” says Sarah Butson, CEO of the Canadian Lung Association. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our government’s commitment to protecting young people from tobacco industry influence and a lifelong battle with nicotine addiction. It’s rare to see change happen so quickly, and we are pleased that the Minister understood the urgency of the matter.

The order also includes limitations to the advertising and promotion of nicotine pouches. Although some province’s had already enacted provincial restrictions on these products, today’s announcement will ensure adequate protection across the country. These restrictions will not impact the availability of other forms of nicotine replacement therapies, ensuring the millions who want to quit have access to supportive and effective cessation aids.