Vet services prohibit offering edibles infused with nicotine in their inventory
In a move aimed at safeguarding public health, the Veterinary Service in the city and district of Osnabrück has enacted General Order No. 1/2025, prohibiting the marketing of nicotine-containing foods. This regulation encompasses all sales and distribution channels, including brick-and-mortar stores, vending machines, mail order, and online sales.
The regulation does not alter the European Union's stance on nicotine-containing products as novel foods. According to European law, nicotine consumed in this manner is classified as a novel food. Approval from the European Union is necessary for such novel foods, but has not yet been granted for nicotine-containing products. Consequently, nicotine-containing foods are currently unmarketable and may not be sold.
The regulation exempts foodstuffs that naturally contain trace amounts of nicotine, such as potatoes or tomatoes. It also excludes nicotine chewing gum and similar preparations.
The Veterinary Service has observed an uptick in tobacco-free, nicotine-containing portion pouches during official inspections. These nicotine pouches are consumed by placing them between the lip and gum, allowing the contents—which include nicotine, aroma, sweeteners, and other additives—to be absorbed through the mucous membrane of the mouth.
The regulation seeks to prevent the sale of untested, potentially health-hazardous foods within the city and district of Osnabrück. Nicotine is not listed in the European Union's registry of approved novel foods, and the sale of untested, nicotine-containing foodstuffs poses a significant risk to public health.
General Order No. 1/2025 applies to all food and other companies based in and/or operating in the city of Osnabrück and the district of Osnabrück. The regulation can be accessed on the homepage of the district of Osnabrück: Lebensmittelrechtliche Allgemeinverfügung Nr. 1/2025 zur Untersagung des Inverkehrbringens von nikotinhaltigen Lebensmitteln.
This action demonstrates the commitment of the Veterinary Service in Osnabrück to prioritizing public health and safety, and it serves as a reminder to all food and other companies to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and laws.
