Haypp Group rejects German drug commissioner’s cancer risk warnings on nicotine pouches

The Haypp Group, a leading global seller of tobacco‑free nicotine products, has refuted statements made by Germany’s Federal Drug Commissioner, Hendrik Streeck, that studies indicate an increased risk of various cancers from nicotine pouches. Haypp cites the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) and broader European epidemiological data, which classify a switch from cigarettes to nicotine pouches as a reduction in health risk. The company notes that BfR finds the toxic‑profile of nicotine pouches comparable to medical substitution products and that research shows no significant link to lung, oral, or mouth‑cancer, referencing Sweden’s low lung‑cancer rates as evidence.

Haypp’s Head of Legal, Markus Lindblad, said, “It is regrettable that the Federal Drug Commissioner distorts the scientific facts. Millions of German smokers are being denied access to lower‑risk alternatives by unfounded fears.” The firm calls for clear, proportionate regulation—including robust age‑verification measures—instead of classifying the products as novel foods that could drive them to an unregulated market.

The dispute centers on public‑health policy, consumer safety, and the regulatory framework for nicotine‑pouch products in Germany.