The lack of regulation of nicotine pouches

Question for written answer E-002286/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Katri Kulmuni (Renew) Subject: The lack of regulation of nicotine pouches Currently, there is no harmonised EU-level regulation of nicotine pouches, and each Member State applies its own national rules. Some Member States allow nicotine pouches while some have banned them outright. Nicotine pouches resemble traditional snus but do not contain tobacco. As they are a new product, research on their long-term effects is limited, but current studies show that they can cause strong addiction and other health risks. These products have quickly gained popularity, especially among young people. Various flavourings, such as menthol, make these products more appealing. These flavourings are banned in cigarettes but not in nicotine pouches. Many young users also order nicotine pouches online, for example, from China, and the nicotine levels can be dangerously high. In view of this, and considering the known issues, I would like to ask the Commission: 1. Does it intend to propose EU-level regulation for nicotine pouches and how does it plan to address the growing popularity of nicotine pouches among young people? 2. Should flavourings in nicotine pouches be banned, as they are in cigarettes? 3. Is it planning to prevent the import of nicotine pouches from outside the EU, on the grounds of health security? Submitted: 5.6.2025 PE775.041v01-00