French Health Minister François Braun announced on Wednesday, May 3/2023, that the government is considering a ban on disposable electronic cigarettes, also known as "puffs," by the end of this year. Speaking on radio France Inter, Braun expressed his support for the ban, stating that these devices "lead some of our young people towards using tobacco."
The potential ban on disposable e-cigarettes may form part of a new anti-smoking plan the Health Ministry is developing for the next five years. Braun emphasized the severity of the smoking problem in France, which he described as a "scourge" that kills 75,000 people annually.
Government to Work with Lawmakers on Enacting Ban
Despite the government's lack of a majority in parliament, Braun assured that ministers would "work with lawmakers" to reach an agreement on the ban, which could be enacted "before the end of this year."
Disposable e-cigarettes, known for their sweet and fruit flavors, are sold in brightly colored packaging at prices accessible to teenagers, ranging from €8 to €12 ($8.80-13.25) for 500 inhalations. Critics accuse the roughly 20 brands selling these products in France of targeting adolescents, despite existing rules prohibiting the sale of electronic cigarettes to minors.
Anti-Smoking Group Warns of Potential "On-Ramp" to Smoking
The anti-smoking group ACT warned late last year that disposable e-cigarettes are "increasingly popular on social media and have a mostly positive and harmless image among young people." However, these one-use devices can contain up to 20 milligrams per milliliter of highly addictive nicotine, potentially serving as an "on-ramp" to smoking, according to ACT.
As the French government weighs the decision to ban disposable e-cigarettes, the move reflects growing concerns over the potential health risks and the targeting of young people by manufacturers. The proposed ban aims to protect teenagers from nicotine addiction and prevent the normalization of smoking behavior.
