Scottish Retailers Urge Government to Fast-Track Nicotine Pouch Regulations

Key Points at a Glance

• The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) says the sale of nicotine pouches in Scotland remains subject to regulatory uncertainty.
• The trade body warns that illegal high-strength nicotine pouches could pose health risks to consumers.
• SGF calls on the government to establish clear rules covering sales controls, age restrictions, product labelling, and safety standards.
• SGF reiterates that nicotine pouches should function as a harm-reduction tool for adults, not as products aimed at children or minors.

2Firsts, December 4, 2025 — According to Talking Retail, the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) has written to the UK Health Secretary urging the government to introduce clear regulatory guidance for nicotine pouches.

In its letter, SGF notes that as the number and variety of nicotine pouch products increase, both retailers and consumers face confusion over issues such as legality, ingredients, nicotine content, and the appropriate target market. The organisation argues that the government should take immediate action through legislation or regulation to clarify which products may be sold, applicable age restrictions, labelling and packaging requirements, and penalties for high-strength or illegal items.

The letter also stresses that nicotine pouches contain no tobacco leaf and carry risks different from traditional tobacco products. However, without proper oversight, they could be irresponsibly marketed and may reach younger users. SGF says that a clear regulatory framework would help stabilise the retail market while protecting public health.

With European countries and other jurisdictions tightening controls on nicotine pouches — including bringing them under tobacco-product regulation, limiting nicotine content, or imposing outright bans — the UK risks a surge in illegal products and a regulatory vacuum if it fails to act promptly.

Cover image: Talking Retail