Author: Nathan Ford

A bill proposing a complete ban on the wholesale and retail sale of all nicotine-containing products, including vapes and electronic cigarettes, is set to be introduced to the Russian State Duma on June 23rd. Spearheaded by Sergey Mironov, leader of the “A Just Russia – For Truth” faction, and Yana Lantratova, chair of a Duma committee, the initiative aims to protect public health, especially among youth. The draft law suggests substantial administrative fines for violations: 25,000-50,000 rubles for individuals (typically shop assistants) and 500,000-1 million rubles for legal entities. Penalties for selling to minors would be even harsher, ranging from…

In-depth look at Zyn nicotine pouch safety: FDA authorization, health risks (addiction, oral health), youth appeal & comparison to smoking. Nicotine pouches, with Zyn leading the charge in popularity, have rapidly established themselves as a significant new category in the nicotine and tobacco landscape. These small, discreet, tobacco-leaf-free microfiber pockets, filled with nicotine powder (either tobacco-derived or synthetic) and various flavorings, are designed to be tucked between the user’s gum and cheek, delivering nicotine without smoke or spit. As their use, particularly among young adults and even teens, continues to surge, the question on many minds is: Is Zyn safe?…

Vietnam and the Maldives have joined a growing list of nations that have banned vaping, a move applauded by health experts and parent groups as an important step in protecting young people from nicotine addiction. The decision brings the total number of countries with vaping bans to approximately 33, including India, New Zealand, North Korea, and Brazil. Vietnam introduced harsh penalties in 2024, with individuals caught using e-cigarettes facing fines of up to 2 million dong (US$78.50). Those involved in importing, trading, or producing vapes face even more severe consequences, with fines reaching 3 billion dong and prison sentences of…