Canada Bans Flavored Nicotine Pouches

Canadian Health Minister Mark Holland has announced new regulations on flavored nicotine pouches, specifically targeting the Zonnic brand, to curb youth access to nicotine. Starting next week, these products will only be available behind pharmacy counters, and all flavors except mint and menthol will be banned. This move follows concerns that these pouches, although approved for smoking cessation, are being used by minors, raising fears of nicotine addiction among non-smokers. Holland's decision has drawn criticism from Imperial Tobacco Canada, which claims the regulations unfairly penalize their product while allowing unregulated alternatives to thrive online. The new measures also include advertising restrictions and a requirement for clearer warning labels. These changes reflect an ongoing effort by the Canadian government to manage nicotine product accessibility and protect public health.