The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns over the aggressive marketing of nicotine pouches to adolescents, highlighting the rapid global expansion of these products. Nicotine pouches are small sachets that release nicotine through the mouth and often contain flavorings and sweeteners. A report from February 2026 indicated that 7.3% of Canadians aged 18 to 29 use nicotine products daily, the highest usage rate among all age groups. Currently, Canadian regulations only allow the sale of nicotine pouches behind pharmacy counters, with Zonnic being the sole authorized brand. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has urged the federal government to reconsider these restrictions, claiming they create barriers for adults trying to quit smoking while inadvertently making it easier for youth to access nicotine. The conversation around youth smoking restrictions has intensified in Canada, particularly following the U.K. Parliament's recent legislation banning tobacco sales to anyone born after January 1, 2009. Despite Canada’s Tobacco and Vaping Products Act aiming to protect youth from nicotine dependence, there are no immediate plans to impose similar sales bans for nicotine pouches.