Ban on Nicotine Pouches – Current Rules in Europe

Nicotine pouches and white snus have quickly become a popular alternative to cigarettes and traditional snus across Europe. These products attract users thanks to their discreet use, tobacco-free format, and wide range of flavors. But alongside their rise in popularity, a clear trend has emerged: more countries are debating or introducing a ban on nicotine pouches.

Germany – legal to use but banned to sell

Germany presents a somewhat contradictory situation. It is currently not illegal to use nicotine pouches, and consumers are also allowed to import white snus for personal use. However, there is a clear ban on the sale of nicotine pouches within the country. This means that Germans who want to use them must purchase online or bring them from abroad. It also appears that some regional states interpret the rules differently, but so far no concrete laws or clear guidelines have been established. Overall, Germany is stuck in a legal grey area that confuses both consumers and retailers.

France – aiming for a total ban in 2026

France is going even further. In 2026, the government plans to introduce a total ban on nicotine pouches. This would mean that both use and sales of white snus would be completely prohibited. Supporters argue this protects public health, especially among young people. Critics, however, point out that nicotine pouches are a less harmful alternative to smoking and that such a ban could push users back toward cigarettes.

Spain – extreme nicotine limits instead of a ban

In Spain, the government is not proposing a direct ban, but instead wants to limit the nicotine strength to 0.99 mg per pouch. In practice, this would make nicotine pouches useless, as the effect would be far too weak for most consumers. Many argue this is simply another way to enforce a ban on nicotine pouches without officially calling it one.

Austria – legal sales, but strict marketing ban

Austria currently has a more open stance compared to its neighbors. Here, there is no ban on nicotine pouches, and they are legally sold in stores across the country. Consumers can buy white snus directly without facing the same restrictions as in Germany or France. However, Austria enforces a strict ban on marketing nicotine pouches. This means companies are not allowed to advertise the products openly, which keeps them less visible compared to cigarettes or e-cigarettes. Despite this, Austria remains one of the few EU countries where both locals and visitors can purchase nicotine pouches legally in physical stores.

Sweden – promoting nicotine pouches in the EU

Sweden is moving in the opposite direction. The Swedish government sees nicotine pouches and white snus as an effective harm reduction tool for smokers trying to quit. Sweden actively promotes the category within the EU, emphasizing that nicotine pouches should be recognized as a complement to smoking cessation rather than something to ban.

Conclusion – a divided future for white snus

The developments across Europe show a fragmented picture. While France and Spain want to impose strict regulations or even total bans on nicotine pouches, Sweden argues that white snus should be part of a public health strategy. Germany, meanwhile, sits in the middle with legal usage but a ban on sales, while Austria has chosen legal sales but strict advertising bans.

The future of nicotine pouches in Europe will therefore vary greatly depending on the country – and with more discussions on bans expected up until 2026 and beyond, the debate is far from over.

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