Under-18 ban widens to nicotine-free vapes and nicotine pouches from 29 October
From 29 October, sales of nicotine-free vapes and nicotine pouches, strips and pearls to under-18s become illegal across the UK. Adults who buy these products for children can also be prosecuted. Promotional giveaways, large discounts and vending-machine sales are banned, and Trading Standards gains new £200 fixed penalty notices in England.
What does it mean?
From 29 October, shops cannot sell vapes without nicotine, or nicotine pouches, to anyone under 18. Adults who buy them for children can also be prosecuted.
Who is affected?
Shops and online sellers of vapes and nicotine products, adults who buy for under-18s, and children under 18.
What changes?
Before, selling nicotine-containing vapes to under-18s was already illegal, but nicotine-free vapes and nicotine pouches were not covered. From 29 October, those products are covered too.