Ministers have been cautioned that children may turn to legal nicotine powders as an alternative to vaping following the crackdown on teen vaping. These chewing gum-sized pouches of nicotine powder dissolve in the mouth and are absorbed by the body. Currently, they can legally be sold to children in the UK because they are not classified as tobacco products. Some brands of these powders feature child-friendly flavors and brightly colored packaging with cartoon characters, similar to controversial vape products. Online sellers market them as a “healthier” alternative to vaping, claiming that they offer a more discreet way for users to consume nicotine.
Experts and anti-smoking groups are urging the government to close the legal loophole that allows the sale of nicotine powders to children. They are concerned that attempts to reduce nicotine addiction in children by cracking down on vaping could fail if these alternative sources remain available. Some powders contain significantly more nicotine than cigarettes, making them a potentially dangerous product for young people to consume.
Alice Wiseman, policy lead for addiction for the Association of Directors of Public Health, emphasized the need for greater regulation to protect children and young people from harmful products. She also called for more research to understand the long-term health effects of nicotine powder usage.
With the government planning to ban disposable vapes to curb nicotine addiction in children, there are concerns that young people may turn to alternative sources to get their fix. Although the sale of e-cigarettes to under-18s is already banned, data suggests that a significant number of young people in the UK have already tried vaping. Websites selling nicotine powders are already promoting the benefits of using them compared to vapes.
While vapes are considered to be a healthier alternative to smoking, they are not without risks, especially for children. NHS figures have shown an increase in the number of children being admitted to hospital due to vaping-related disorders. Some children have also had severe allergic reactions after vaping.
Some brands of nicotine powders already restrict the sale of their products to over-18s, but this is not mandatory for all brands. Age verification requirements vary among online sellers.
In conclusion, the sale of nicotine powders to children is a concerning issue that needs to be addressed through greater regulation. The potential risks and health impacts of these products on young people should be thoroughly researched. It is crucial to provide accurate information to young people about the risks associated with vaping and nicotine consumption in order to protect their health and well-being.
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