Home / Health / Scotland Bans Under-18s From Buying All Nicotine & Herbal Products
Scotland Bans Under-18s From Buying All Nicotine & Herbal Products
29 Oct
Summary
- Scotland prohibits sales of nicotine and herbal smoking products to under-18s.
- Retailers must register to sell these products by April 29.
- The law aims to protect future generations from nicotine addiction.
New legislation in Scotland now prohibits the purchase of all nicotine and herbal smoking products by individuals under 18. This updated law expands the ban to include pouches, strips, pearls, and herbal products intended for smoking. Scotland is the only UK nation requiring registration for sellers of these items, with all retailers needing valid registration by April 29.
The Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 also eliminates vending machine sales of these products and outlaws significant discounts. Public health minister Maree Todd emphasized the goal of preventing nicotine addiction among young people, noting the rising popularity of products like nicotine pouches. Registration is seen as a foundation for effective regulation and enforcement.
Chief medical officer Gregor Smith highlighted nicotine's addictive nature and its potential negative impacts on mental health and concentration, particularly for children. Action on Smoking and Health Scotland welcomed the measures, stating they close legal loopholes and protect children's health from the tobacco and nicotine industry's profits. The consumption of nicotine can severely affect young people's cardiovascular system, brain development, and mental well-being.
