Representatives of companies that sell snus, as well as many Swedish politicians, often say that Sweden has few smokers thanks to snus, the brown and the white. But there is no research to support this. The Public Health Agency instead points out that Sweden was early with restrictions on smoking.
WHO supports the Public Health Agency's analysis.
"Sweden's overall positive experience is not a result of snus or nicotine pouches," said Ranti Fayokun, a researcher at the WHO's smoke-free initiative, at a press conference, writes Politico.
Just like the Public Health Agency, she instead points to regulations and support as an explanation: taxes on cigarettes, strict rules for marketing and help for those who want to quit smoking.
“Don't follow Sweden's example”
The researcher warns other countries against following the Swedish example. There is a great risk that more people will become addicted to nicotine.
The statement comes as the WHO releases its first report on nicotine pouches, writes Politico.
In it, WHO writes that nicotine pouches can contain high levels of nicotine, are highly addictive and risk being a gateway to cigarettes. Nicotine pouches also increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. In addition, young brains can be damaged if snus is used, warns WHO.
“These products are designed to create addiction. We need to protect our young people from the manipulation of the industry,” Etienne Krug, head of the WHO’s Department of Health Determinants, Promotion and Prevention, told Politico.
Half the treasure becomes a reality
Politico also writes about the EU Commission's proposal for minimum taxes on white snus. The EU Commission's proposal involves a minimum tax of 50 percent of the retail price (143 euros per kilo). Sweden and some other countries are protesting against that tax level. Politico writes that it is now leaning towards a lower tax. Politico believes it will end up at 25 percent of the retail price (71,5 euros per kilo).
At the end of this year, the European Commission will present its review of the Tobacco Products Directive. Many expect the Commission to propose tightening the rules. This will probably involve restrictions on companies that sell and market white snus.
