‘Engineered for Addiction’: WHO Slams Soaring Nicotine Pouch Sales In
WHO says nicotine pouches are rapidly expanding, with sales topping 23 billion units in 2024 and regulations lagging in 160 countries.
- On Friday, the World Health Organization issued a warning over the rapid global expansion of nicotine pouches, which are being aggressively marketed to adolescents and young people.
- The global nicotine pouch market was worth nearly $7 billion in 2025, with sales surging more than 50 per cent to over 23 billion units in 2024, particularly in North America.
- Companies use "discreet" and "tobacco free" messaging while employing influencers and sports sponsorships; slogans like "Forget the rules" encourage use in banned areas.
- Etienne Krug, head of WHO's health determinants department, emphasized that nicotine is "highly addictive" and particularly harmful for developing brains; adolescent exposure increases long-term dependence risk.
- Currently, around 160 countries lack specific regulations for nicotine pouches, though only 16 have implemented bans. The WHO urges governments to restrict flavors, advertising, and sponsorship.
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In a report published this Friday, 15 May, the United Nations institution urges governments to regulate or even prohibit the sale of chicks to adolescents.
‘Designed to be addictive': WHO warns about the success of nicotine sachets
A WHO report warns against the rise of nicotine consumption in the world. More than 23 billion nicotine bags were sold in 2024. - "Designed to be addictive": WHO warns about the rise of nicotine bags among the youngest (Health and well-being).
‘Engineered for addiction’: WHO slams soaring nicotine pouch sales in
GENEVA: The World Health Organization issued a strong warning Friday over the rapid global expansion of nicotine pouch products, decrying the tobacco industry’s aggressive marketing tactics to hook young people. Nicotine pouches, which are small sachets placed between the gum and lip that release nicotine through the lining of the mouth, are rapidly reshaping the global
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