BBC Scotland’s investigation found that these nicotine pouches, which potentially are “ten times the strength of cigarettes,” are openly available for purchase.
The shop employee claimed the pouches contained 100mg of nicotine; however, tests revealed a lower level of 17mg, still categorised as extra strong by most legitimate manufacturers.
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These findings highlight concerns regarding the sale of such addictive products, which are marketed using colourful packaging and sweet flavours that appeal to minors.
These products, termed a “worrying child appeal” by Trading Standards, are often placed in plain sight at the front of check-out areas in stores.
Nicotine pouches, also known as snus, are small sachets containing nicotine, flavourings, sweeteners, and plant-based fibres, which are inserted under the upper lip to allow nicotine absorption through the gum.
They are available in flavours similar to those of vapes, including tropical mango, very berry, and cherry ice.
Despite being deemed less harmful than smoking or vaping, these pouches can cause numerous side effects like nicotine addiction, oral health issues, gastrointestinal problems, gum irritation, increased heart rate, blood pressure, and a heightened risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Unlike cigarettes and vapes, nicotine pouches are not governed by the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016 (TRPR), but rather the less strict General Products Safety Regulations 2005 (GPSR).
This indicates that these products can be widely sold in stores and online, often with no age restriction.
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The BBC’s reporter managed to buy a tub of orange-flavoured “Millions” pouches for £7.50, which lacked all the required hazard warnings and manufacturer details, during the investigation.
The design on the tub was a direct rip-off of the “Millions” sweets branding, produced by Golden Casket Ltd, a Scottish confectionery manufacturer.
Golden Casket Ltd said they were “appalled” at their branding being used in such a manner.
Another brand called “Candys,” with gummy bear illustrations, was also found for sale.
Kate Pike, from the Chartered Institute of Trading Standards, said: “It was ‘outrageous’ that products were mimicking popular sweet brands in a bid to target children.”
BBC Scotland’s investigation has led to the retailer removing the “Millions” product from its shelves.
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently passing through Parliament, aims to address this concern by making it illegal to sell nicotine pouches to individuals under 18.
The bill also proposes powers to restrict the use of child-appealing flavours, packaging, and advertising, and dictate the placement of these products in stores.
The loopholes that currently allow children to buy these products have resulted in widespread reports from across the UK.
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Young users, such as Alex, who began using nicotine pouches at school aged 15, have reported addiction, with consumption reaching as many as 15 pouches a day.
British American Tobacco, Phillip Morris, and Japan Tobacco International, some of the largest nicotine pouch manufacturers, have all voiced their support for the forthcoming legislation.
With the government tightening the rules surrounding the sale of nicotine pouches, it is hoped that this new legislation will help curb the recent surge in young people becoming hooked on these addictive products.
