South Australia has become the first state in Australia to ban “highly addictive” nicotine pouches.
These pouches are small, pre-filled bags containing nicotine, sweeteners, and flavourings. They are tucked under the lip, where their contents dissolve in the mouth and are absorbed into the bloodstream.
Sold as an alternative to vapes and tobacco, nicotine pouches are now subject to the same controls as illicit tobacco and e-cigarette products in SA.
South Australian Minister for Health Chris Picton says nicotine pouches are banned as part of the state government’s ongoing fight against the illicit tobacco and vape trade.
“This is about stopping the next dangerous nicotine trend taking hold of our kids,” he says.
“Big tobacco has been using vapes to try to get kids hooked and their new weapon is nicotine pouches. We won’t allow it.
“We’re not going to let them use other new products like nicotine pouches to get kids addicted. And we will take further action if we see more emerging products coming on the market.”
Authorised officers can now seize nicotine pouches and enforce fines of up to $1.5 million against those selling them.