Health Ministry orders crackdown on nicotine pouches, citing health risks, letter shows

The Union Health Ministry has instructed state governments to intensify efforts to curb the sale of nicotine pouches, deeming them a significant health threat. The Ministry's letter to states, accessed by Reuters, underscores that significant international tobacco brands are being sold unlawfully across the nation. Nicotine pouches, small pouches placed beneath the lip containing nicotine but lacking tobacco, have gained widespread popularity and present lucrative opportunities for tobacco giants, yet they remain illegal and unapproved in India.

The government has banned e-cigarettes but permits certain nicotine replacements like patches and chewing gums. However, nicotine pouches are commonly smuggled into India for online and local store sales. A federal study labeled them "a largely unregulated public health concern," with widespread usage among individuals aged 18 to 40.

The Health Ministry emphasized the urgency of enforcement actions to safeguard public health and protect children in the September 19 letter. The directive cites provisions under the drug law enabling searches, seizures, and prosecutions of those dealing in such products. The Ministry did not provide further comment. Big Tobacco companies like Philip Morris and Swedish Smokeless have not responded to inquiries.

While the World Health Organization advocates for stronger measures to shield, particularly the youth, from nicotine pouch addiction, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration suggests that smokers transitioning entirely to alternatives like pouches, vapes, and heated tobacco products may experience reduced health risks. In April, an investigation revealed that Mumbai's international airport duty-free shops operated by billionaire Gautam Adani's business group had breached the law by selling nicotine pouches.

Adani has denied any wrongdoing, and the Bombay High Court recently dismissed the company's arguments that duty-free shops are exempt from domestic laws. However, the government maintains concerns over the addictive nature and independent health risks posed by nicotine pouches, finding no evidence supporting their effectiveness as smoking cessation aids.

The Drugs Technical Advisory Board recommended against the approval of any new nicotine formulations in the public interest.