Trade body slams rogue retailers selling illegal nicotine pouches to youths
THE Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) has warned retailers across Scotland to remain vigilant about illegal nicotine pouches that have been circulating across retail channels.
Following media reports about illegal, high strength nicotine pouches being found in stores, the SGF has urged anyone with information about those selling the products to contact police or Trading Standards Scotland.
The SGF has also written to its own members to reiterate the organisation’s stance that nicotine products are to be used as an adult smoking cessation tool and are not to be “marketed or sold to children”.
Luke McGarty, head of policy and public affairs at the SGF, said: “While there is no legal age limit on the sale of nicotine pouch products in Scotland, concerns have been raised about the impacts of nicotine on the health of younger people.
“Standard pouches contain up to 20mg of nicotine, with over 30mg typically providing more nicotine per pouch than a cigarette. However, extra-high strength, illegal and counterfeit pouches of 100mg+, which may pose a significant risk to the users’ health, have been reported widely in the media.
“We would encourage anyone with information about these illicit products to share that with police or trading standards.”
New restrictions are expected to be introduced in the UK Government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which is currently making its way through parliament.
Full guidance and information about the regulations for nicotine vaping products and tobacco compliance in Scotland can also be found via the SGF website on this link.
McGarty said: “Just like retailers across the country, the SGF is focused on responsible community retailing. We work with key stakeholders to promote this goal and highlight the importance of adhering to legislative and regulatory requirements.”
