At Snusselect, we are strongly opposed to the idea of banning nicotine pouches and white snus – products that have already helped thousands of people in Ireland quit smoking. While no official ban has been proposed, recent statements from Irish political leaders suggest that a total ban may be under consideration.
We believe that removing these safer alternatives would be a step in the wrong direction for public health. Instead, Ireland should focus on responsible regulation that protects young people while preserving harm-reducing options for adults.
Nicotine Pouches and White Snus – Part of the Solution, Not the Problem
Smoke-free, tobacco-free, and discreet – nicotine pouches and white snus are a far safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. They don’t involve combustion, don’t produce smoke, and avoid the toxic byproducts of burning tobacco. These qualities make them an effective aid for those looking to quit smoking or vaping.
Despite this, Irish officials are beginning to speak out strongly against them.
At the World Conference on Tobacco Control 2025, Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said work is underway to “eradicate” nicotine pouches, calling them “particularly invidious”. She expressed concern that pouches may deliver “very high doses of nicotine to children in very subtle ways, but very, very quickly.”
(Source: The Journal Ireland, June 2025)
Taoiseach Micheál Martin also criticised the rise of nicotine products, calling vaping “the revenge of Big Tobacco” and warning that nicotine is being put “back on the agenda”. The government has indicated it wants to remove flavours like pineapple and coconut and restrict how nicotine pouches and vapes are displayed in stores.
No official legislation banning pouches has been introduced yet – but the tone of these comments suggests that stronger action could be on the way.
Our Position: Sensible Regulation Over Extreme Measures
At Snusselect, we support protecting young people – but a total ban would punish adults who are trying to quit smoking. We advocate for a balanced and sustainable approach, including:
- A strict 18+ age limit
- No youth-targeted advertising
- Transparent ingredient and strength labelling
- A maximum of 17mg/pouch
These measures would maintain the availability of nicotine pouches and snus for adults while discouraging misuse or underage access.
What’s at Stake
If Ireland does move toward a full ban, many popular and trusted brands – such as ZYN, VELO, and Pablo – would vanish from stores. This would strip consumers of one of the most effective modern tools for quitting smoking and could push them back toward cigarettes or unregulated black-market products.
Conclusion: Keep Harm Reduction in Focus
There’s no denying the need for tighter controls around how nicotine products are marketed and sold. But eliminating nicotine pouches entirely would be a mistake. These products are helping smokers take steps toward a healthier life.
We urge Irish decision-makers: focus on smart, evidence-based regulation – not reactionary bans. Let’s support adult smokers trying to quit, while keeping the next generation nicotine-free.
Source: The Journal Ireland – reporting from the World Conference on Tobacco Control 2025