Nicotine pouches are a relatively new product on the market in the UK, and as such, regulations surrounding them are still evolving. However, there are a number of key regulations that all retailers of nicotine pouches need to be aware of in order to stay compliant.
Age Restrictions
One of the most important regulations to be aware of is the age restriction on nicotine pouches. In the UK, nicotine pouches will be and should be only permitted to be sold to adults over the age of 18. This means that you need to have a robust system in place to verify the age of your customers before selling them nicotine pouches.
Labeling Requirements
Nicotine pouches must also be labeled in accordance with the relevant regulations. This includes information such as the nicotine content, the ingredients, and the health risks associated with use. You need to make sure that your labels are clear and easy to understand, and that they meet all of the regulatory requirements. Certain strength nicotine pouches will may also need to include extra details like a large skull symbol and nicotine warnings. Furthermore, all nicotine pouches warning labels, ingredients etc. should be in English language.
Marketing Restrictions
There are also a number of restrictions on how nicotine pouches can be marketed. For example, you cannot market nicotine pouches to children or young people. You also need to be careful about the claims that you make about the health benefits of nicotine pouches and make sure to back up any claims with proof or legitimate references.
Sales Restrictions
In the UK, there are no specific sales restrictions on nicotine pouches. The only restriction is on snus which is illegal to sell within the United Kingdom. In 2023, the Committee on Toxicity (COT) published a statement on oral nicotine pouches, which concluded that they should not be regulated as tobacco products. The COT found that nicotine pouches are not as harmful as smoking, and that they may be a useful tool for smokers who are trying to quit. However, the COT also warned that nicotine pouches are not without risks. They can cause addiction, and they may have other health effects that are not yet fully understood. As a result, the COT recommended that nicotine pouches should be used with caution. The current regulatory status of nicotine pouches in the UK is likely to change in the future. The government is currently reviewing the TRPR, and it is possible that nicotine pouches will be classified as tobacco products in the future. If this happens, they will be subject to stricter regulations.
Compliance with Regulations
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest regulations surrounding nicotine pouches in the UK. You can do this by subscribing to industry publications, attending industry events, and contacting the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). We will also be posting regular news updates regarding Nicotine Pouches so make sure to subscribe to our newsletter.
By following these regulations, you can help to ensure that your business is compliant and that you are not putting your customers at risk.
Here are some additional tips for staying compliant with nicotine pouch regulations in the UK:
- Work with a reputable supplier. A reputable supplier will be able to help you to understand the regulations and to ensure that your products are compliant.
- Keep your records up-to-date. You need to keep records of all of your sales and marketing activities. This will help you to demonstrate compliance if you are ever audited.
- Be proactive. Don't wait for the regulators to come to you. Take the initiative to understand the regulations and to put in place the necessary measures to comply.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your business is compliant with nicotine pouch regulations in the UK and that you are protecting your customers.