Ottawa weighs easing nicotine pouch restrictions amid provincial and retailer pressure
Federal officials say they are open to revising rules that limit nicotine pouches to pharmacy counters, following lobbying from provinces and convenience-store chains.
A senior federal source indicated that Ottawa is reviewing the 2024 framework that restricts nicotine pouches such as Zonnic and Zyn to pharmacy counters, limits nicotine to 4 mg per pouch and allows only mint or menthol flavors. The review is prompted by lobbying from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Ontario Health Minister Sylvia Jones and convenience-store conglomerate Alimentation Couche-Tard, whose lobbyist met with the Prime Minister’s Office in March.
Officials say there is "interest" in easing the rules but stress that no decision has been taken and the issue is not a priority. Health Canada continues to warn that the products could attract minors and that illegal cross-border imports sustain a black market. Critics argue the products may help smokers cut cigarettes, yet research shows limited impact on quit rates. The debate highlights the clash between public-health safeguards and commercial interests.
Why it matters
Potential regulatory changes could reshape where nicotine pouches are sold and affect public-health and retail markets.
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