Health officials across the country are raising concerns about a new nicotine product that is being sold without age restrictions.
Nicotine pouches under the brand name ”Zonnic” are being sold in flavours and packaging that are attractive to younger populations. The pouches are now widely available in local convenience stores and gas stations and are sold alongside other common products like candy and chips.
Despite Health Canada recommending against the use of nicotine pouches by individuals under 18, they can be purchased without the requirement to verify age.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is recommending that parents have ongoing and open conversations with their children about the dangers of nicotine use.
“These products serve as a stepping stone to more dangerous substances due to their addictive nicotine content. This is a trend that we are currently experiencing with youth who vape being three times more likely to start smoking tobacco cigarettes,” said Dr. Mehdi Aloosh, Medical Officer of Health at the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), “I am very concerned about these products leading to early nicotine addiction for our children.”
Health unit staff have made local school boards aware of these products and will work closely with them to adapt school policies and enforcement procedures to prevent their use in schools. Under the Smoke-free Ontario Act, 2017, the WECHU enforces smoking and vaping regulations in all public places, including schools, by investigating and following up on complaints from the community to reduce youth access to tobacco and vape products.
Given the recent emergence of these products in Canada, they do not currently fall within the scope of these regulations.
Currently, the products are being sold under a Natural Health Product designation from Health Canada and marketed as tools to quit smoking. The WECHU is cautioning those who may be considering these products that there is no evidence that proves that they are effective in this regard.
Health unit efforts over the coming months will focus on educating the public, educators, and healthcare providers on how to talk to patients and young people about these new products. They will also be recommending changes to federal and provincial regulatory frameworks which limit exposure of these products to those under the age of 18, in the same manner as tobacco and vaping products.
Parents are encouraged to speak with their children about these products, and the risk of nicotine addiction at young age. Many of the same tips for speaking with children and teens about smoking and vaping can be used for any nicotine product.
For more information on the harms associated with these products and tips on how to speak with your children visit:
Harms of Nicotine for Youth