Are Nicotine Pouches Legal In The Netherlands?

Nathan Chilcott

The Law

The Netherlands has a reputation for being a relaxed, consumer friendly environment. Think about the ease in which you can purchase marijuana and the presenece of the Red Light District.

As such, it would seem likely that nicotine pouches would be welcomed with open arms.

Studies show that nicotine pouches are have fewer health risks than cigarettes and could be a viable part of any tobacco harm reduction strategy.

“Despite this, the government in the Netherlands have decided to implement a new law banning the sale of nicotine pouches. Nicotine pouches are now illegal in the Netherlands.”

Why Are Nicotine Pouches In Netherlands Being Banned?

On April 21, 2023, the government agreed that the sale of nicotine pouches would be banned. It wasn’t just nicotine pouches, the new regulations cover any tobacco-free nicotine product.

The new law was created after concern from politicians regarding the use of nicotine pouches, particularly by minors.

It’s worth noting that prior to banning nicotine pouches in Netherlands, nicotine pouches were covered by food rules and pouches were only legal if they contained less than 0.035 grammes of nicotine.

The Netherland Nicotine Pouch Ban

In recent years, traditional cigarettes have risen dramatically in price, and it’s become illegal to smoke them in many places. The nicotine pouch industry rose from this, giving tobacco companies a new way to reach consumers.

At the same time, smoking alternatives like nicotine pouches, have been shown to be healthier.

Unfortunately, the new ban means companies are no longer able to advertise tobacco-free nicotine products.

In short, it’s fair to say that the Netherlands nicotine pouch ban does more harm than good.

Why The Nicotine Pouch Ban Is An Issue

In the first instance, a ban won’t stop people from purchasing on the black market. However, items bought via this route are unregulated and could contain virtually anything.

In addition, the lack of a viable alternative to cigarettes means that many people will continue to smoke and expose themselves to the associated health risks.

Sure, the variety of nicotine pouch flavours may make pouches seem more appealing to young people, but a simple age ban can help with this.

Removing accessibility to nicotine pouches means that, despite limits placed on the sale of cigarettes, smoking and vaping becomes the only legal option for people dealing with a nicotine craving.

Purchasing Nicotine Pouches

It’s illegal to buy or sell nicotine pouches in the Netherlands. This includes ordering online from outside the country.

However, while it may not be an ideal solution. It is currently still possible to purchase nicotine pouches outside of the Netherlands and carry them back in – as long as they are for personal use.

You just need to get a great deal.

The ban states that buying and selling nicotine pouches in the country is illegal. But, it’s not yet illegal to bring the pouches in and use them yourself.

Summing Up

The Netherlands has adopted what appears to be a damaging approach to nicotine pouches. It’s likely that this will encourage nicotine users to return to smoking and vaping and rates will start to climb again.

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