Overview

• There is currently no legislation restricting the sale of nicotine pouches by age, allowing children of any age to legally purchase them.
• Trading Standards officers found sweet-flavored pouches displayed at checkouts with packaging designed to mimic candy and appeal to children.
• Data from Action on Smoking and Health shows awareness among 11- to 17-year-olds rose from 38% in 2024 to 43% in 2025, with 4% reporting they have tried the pouches.
• Nicotine pouches are small, teabag-like sachets containing nicotine, flavorings, sweeteners, and plant-based fibres that deliver 1.5 to 20 milligrams of nicotine under the lip.
• The Tobacco and Vapes Bill would ban sales to under-18s and grant authorities powers to curb flavours, packaging, advertising, and placement, and the Chartered Trading Standards Institute is urging its expedited passage.