Nicotine pouches are becoming increasingly popular in Canada as a smoke-free and tobacco-free way to enjoy nicotine.
With their discreet use and variety of flavors, many people see them as a modern alternative to cigarettes and vaping. But their rising demand has also brought questions about legal access, especially regarding age restrictions.
In this article, we shall discuss the minimum age to buy nicotine pouches in Canada, how provincial rules differ, and how these compare with other nicotine products.
Federal and Provincial Rules
At the federal level, nicotine pouch brands such as Zonnic are authorized as Natural Health Products (NHPs) intended for smoking cessation. This meant that they were not initially governed by the Tobacco and Vaping Products Act, which sets minimum age rules for tobacco and vapes. Because of this classification gap, there was a period when nicotine pouches could be sold legally without age restrictions.
However, this changed with the August 28, 2024, reforms, when Health Canada introduced stricter rules requiring:
- Sales are only through pharmacies and are kept behind the counter.
- Age-targeted labeling to discourage youth use.
- Flavor limits to prevent youth appeal.
At the provincial level, rules now mostly align with tobacco and vaping laws, meaning the minimum purchase age is 18 or 19, depending on the province. For example, in Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec, it is 18, while in Ontario, British Columbia, and most others, it is 19. And finally, in Prince Edward Island, the minimum age to purchase nicotine pouches is 21 years old!
Why Nicotine Pouches are Age Restricted
Young people are particularly vulnerable to the addictive effects of nicotine, which can impact brain development and lead to long-term health issues. Research indicates that early exposure to nicotine increases the likelihood of developing other substance use disorders and can impair cognitive functions. To protect youth from these health risks,
By restricting access to nicotine pouches and other tobacco products, Canadian authorities seek to prevent an increase in youth addiction rates, reduce associated health care costs, and promote healthier lifestyle choices among young Canadians.
The aims are simple:
- Protect youth from nicotine addiction and its health consequences
- Promoting awareness about the risks associated with nicotine use
- Aligning with international standards and best practices for tobacco and nicotine regulation
- Supporting long-term public health objectives to decrease tobacco-related illnesses and deaths
Other Canadian Restrictions Around Nicotine Pouches
In addition to age restrictions, Canada has implemented various regulations to ensure the safe use and sale of nicotine pouches. These measures aim to protect consumers and prevent misuse or misinformation about these products. Here are some of the key restrictions currently in place:
- Labeling: Canadian regulations mandate clear and accurate labeling on all nicotine pouch packaging. Labels must include details such as nicotine content, ingredient list, health warnings, and usage instructions. This ensures consumers are fully informed about the product and its potential risks.
- Strength: The maximum allowable nicotine strength in these products is 4mg per pouch. This limit helps control nicotine intake and reduces the risk of addiction, especially among younger users.
- Quantity: Sales are restricted to a maximum of a 90-day supply per purchase. This regulation helps prevent bulk buying, stockpiling, and potential misuse, promoting responsible consumption and easier enforcement.
These regulations might not be all that you have to worry about, depending on your province or city, there may be stricter rules which you need to follow. It’s always best to do your own due diligence before buying nicotine pouches!
Buying Nicotine Pouches Online
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