Germany destroys €1.2M in illegal nicotine pouches over safety violations
Authorities in Offenbach have destroyed 36 pallets of illegal nicotine pouches worth around €1.2 million. The products, known as snus, were confiscated after failing to meet German food safety regulations. Officials confirmed the pouches lacked proper authorisation for sale in the country.
The Offenbach District Food Safety Authority took action against the unapproved nicotine pouches. These products, classified as 'novel foods', do not contain tobacco but are banned from sale in Germany. Despite their classification, they still require authorisation before entering the market.
An investigation revealed that the pouches had no legal approval for distribution. The manufacturer remains unnamed, as the items originated from illegal trade channels. The authority, responsible for overseeing food safety and preventing deceptive practices, ordered their destruction to eliminate potential health risks. The confiscated shipment had an estimated value of €1.2 million. Officials emphasised that the products posed a regulatory violation, as they were neither registered nor compliant with German food laws.
The destruction of the nicotine pouches follows strict enforcement of food safety rules. The Offenbach District Food Safety Authority continues to monitor businesses to prevent unauthorised products from reaching consumers. No further details about the supplier or distribution network have been released.
