Nicotine pouches are now restricted to pharmacies. Former smokers say that’s making it harder to quit – CBC
Federal government has banned pouches from convenience stores and completely recalled fruity flavours
Sep 01, 2024
Flavoured nicotine pouches are now only available for purchase in Canada from a pharmacist — but some former smokers say the new national regulations also make it harder for adults to reach a product that was helping them quit cigarettes.
“I think the government should be doing whatever they can to limit youth from getting addicted to nicotine, whether it’s nicotine pouches, vaping products or tobacco products in general,” said 29-year old Zach Laing, a former cigarette smoker who uses the pouches.
“The legislation here … is just taking it a little bit too far,” the Edmonton man said.
As of Wednesday, the federal government has banned the sale of the pouches in convenience stores, gas stations and online. It has also now completely recalled all fruity flavours — only mint is available for purchase from behind a pharmacy counter.
