Union Health Ministry orders crackdown on illegal nicotine pouches

The Union Health Ministry ordered all States on September 19 to initiate enforcement action against the sale of illegal nicotine pouches, citing severe health risks.

The unapproved oral pouches, including brands like Zyn and White Fox, are frequently smuggled into India and consumed by individuals aged 18 to 40.

The Drugs Technical Advisory Board recently recommended that no new nicotine formulations be approved in the public interest.