North America’s War on Nicotine? ft. Elizabeth Hayes and Sabine Benoit

About this episode

The episode discusses the evolving nicotine policies in North America with insights from experts on the implications for public health and harm reduction.

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, Lisa from the World Vapers’ Alliance is joined by Elizabeth Hayes, Head of External Affairs at the Consumer Choice Center (CCC), and Sabine Benoit, CCC’s Canadian Policy Associate. Together, they break down the rapidly shifting landscape of nicotine policy across North America — from the USA and Canada to Mexico. Liz explains how U.S. lawmakers are increasingly targeting not only vaping products, but also nicotine pouches, with flavor bans, tax hikes, and new regulatory hurdles. The conversation explores recent developments in the PMTA process, including the first FDA authorizations for nicotine pouches — and what that could mean for the future of harm reduction in America. Sabine shares the Canadian perspective, where federal and provincial rules have made access to safer alternatives increasingly restrictive. From pharmacy-only pouch access to widespread flavor bans, Canada’s framework treats vaping much like cigarettes — despite growing evidence that many smokers are successfully quitting with e-cigarettes. The episode also looks at Mexico’s recent constitutional amendment banning vapes while combustible cigarettes remain legal — raising…

People in this episode

Host: Lisa

Guests: Elizabeth Hayes, Sabine Benoit

Topics covered

• nicotine policy
• vaping regulations
• harm reduction
• public health
• flavor bans
• illicit trade

Keywords

• nicotine policy
• vaping
• flavor bans
• harm reduction
• public health
• Canada
• USA
• Mexico

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Consumer Choice Center, FDA

Places: USA, Canada, Mexico

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