Nicotine pouches are put under specific rules for their composition, packaging, safety for children and generally for their distribution in the Cypriot market.
The text of amending regulations prepared by the Ministry of Health and submitted to the public consultation process, sets strict conditions and, among other things, obliges manufacturers or importers to provide detailed information to the competent Authority before releasing a product."Each nicotine bag cannot contain more than 16 milligrams (mg) of nicotine," according to the relevant amendment. The limit concerns each bag separately and not the sum of the nicotine contained in a box.
Provisions do not stop at content. It is forbidden to place on the market bags containing additives which, based on scientific evidence, significantly and measurably increase the toxic or addictive effect during consumption. In other words, the competent authority should know not only how much nicotine a product contains, but also what else is in it.
Before the first placing of each product on the market of the Republic, the manufacturer or importer must notify it electronically to the competent Authority. The envelope will include the brand name, brand and type of product, a list of all ingredients with their quantities and the nicotine content per pouch. Information on the dose and absorption of nicotine during normal or reasonably foreseeable use, as well as available toxicological data, shall also be requested.
The producer or importer must also briefly describe the production process and declare that he takes responsibility for the quality and safety of the product. A change in composition, nicotine content or brand name does not go unnoticed: it is communicated before the modified version is available. The cessation of disposal shall also be notified to the Authority.
In addition, each package must be child-resistant, in accordance with the international standard ISO 8317. At the same time, it will carry a health warning.
The Greek wording is defined as follows: "This product contains nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance. Its use is not recommended for non-smokers."
The warning will not be limited to an inconspicuous corner. It must appear on the two largest surfaces of the packaging unit and each outer packaging, covering at least 32% of each. Black letters are provided on a white background and a size that allows for its legible appearance. It must not be covered by other elements or become illegible when the box is opened. Permanently attached sticker is allowed.
The packaging must also contain instructions for safe use and handling, precautions to prevent children from swallowing the product or being exposed to nicotine, and information on what to do if swallowed. If the available space does not allow for easy-to-read instructions, these will be provided in an accompanying form. A batch number or corresponding identifier will allow the identification of the product.
The liability of businesses continues after the launch. Manufacturers and importers will have a system of collecting information on possible harmful effects on health. If they consider that bags they own or have in their possession are not safe, are not of good quality or do not comply with the provisions, they must immediately take corrective action or, where necessary, withdraw or recall them.
