German health experts urge ban on nicotine pouches

A coalition of 62 health organizations, including the German Medical Association and the German Dental Association, has urged the German government to maintain the current ban on nicotine pouches. These products are currently classified as novel foods and lack the necessary authorization for sale in Germany.

Medical experts warn that lifting the ban would increase the visibility and marketing of nicotine products, potentially facilitating addiction among youth. Data from 2025 indicates that 5.5% of adolescents aged 12 to 17 and 18.9% of young adults aged 18 to 25 have already used nicotine pouches.

Health authorities, citing research from the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, note that nicotine levels from these pouches can be comparable to or even higher than those from traditional cigarettes. Risks include impaired brain development in minors, cardiovascular issues, and oral health damage.