Germany’s parliament has voted by an absolute majority to amend a law on tobacco products. According to the amendment, the packaging of heated tobacco sticks must have text and image warning labels. In addition, the flavoring ban will be extended to heated tobacco stem products.
Burkhard Blienert, the federal government’s commissioner for drugs, called the bill “an important step for more health protection.” But he says it can only be a start.
“Scents and flavorings add to the appeal of the product and mask the dangers of smoking.”
Blinet also called for tighter restrictions on e-cigarettes. He pointed out that children also use disposable e-cigarettes with high levels of nicotine, which is also related to their rich taste. In addition, many e-cigarettes have a bright appearance and are very small, can easily fit into a pencil case, and are usually less expensive.
Blinette stressed that the advertising ban on vaping products and e-cigarettes needs to go further. Experts say flavored tobacco products are often seen as a gateway to smoking.
The ban on flavored tobacco only applies to cigarettes and heated tobacco products, and e-cigarettes are not affected by the new ban.
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【1】Tabakerhitzer: Aromen-Verbot und Warnhinweise beschlossen