Scotland bans sale of nicotine products to under-18s

Scotland has implemented stricter laws to safeguard children and adolescents from smoking, prohibiting those under 18 from purchasing nicotine and herbal smoking products. This includes nicotine pouches, strips, and pearls, as well as any herbal products that can be smoked. The new regulations also require retailers selling these items to obtain valid registration by April 29 next year, making Scotland the sole part of the United Kingdom (UK) with such a register.

Public health minister Maree Todd stated that the aim is to protect future generations from nicotine addiction, particularly as these products are becoming increasingly popular among young people. The Scottish Government believes this ban will contribute to healthier lives for individuals across Scotland. The new rules also ban substantial discounts on nicotine products and prohibit vending machines from stocking them.

Glasgow's chief medical officer, Gregor Smith, emphasized that nicotine is highly addictive and can lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, depression, difficulty concentrating, and insomnia. He urged that those who do not smoke should never start using nicotine products, especially children and young people. The Scottish Government's chief executive, Sheila Duffy, from Action on Smoking and Health Scotland, welcomed these measures, emphasizing that they address health inequalities and legal loopholes in the tobacco and nicotine industry.