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Peers propose full tobacco ban from 2040 under new amendment
Labour is pressing ahead with legislation to prevent anyone born on or after 1 January 2009 from purchasing cigarettes, a policy originally set in motion by Rishi Sunak. However, some lawmakers believe the measures could be strengthened further. Lord Bethell has introduced an amendment in the House of Lords seeking a complete prohibition of tobacco sales from 2040. The proposal would retain the gradual phasing out of smoking for younger generations but would also mandate the government to create a full implementation plan.
Source: The Spectator, 25 April 2025
Editorial note: The headline in the article states: ‘Tory peer backs total nicotine ban’. This is incorrect as the amendment only refers to tobacco products, not nicotine.
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MP calls for tighter youth vaping controls through digital age checks
Labour MP Mary Glindon has proposed the introduction of a phone app-based age verification system, requiring users to confirm their age before a vape device can be activated. With NHS data showing that nearly one in ten secondary school pupils vape and concerns from teachers and parents about inadequate enforcement, Glindon argues that additional safeguards are needed. The Bill, which already plans to restrict flavours and packaging, is currently in the House of Lords.
Source: The Sun, 25 April 2025
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Teachers urged to address nicotine pouch use among teenagers
With the ban on disposable vapes approaching, schools are seeing an increase in the use of nicotine pouches among young people. These discreet, flavoured products are being marketed as safer alternatives to smoking or vaping and have gained popularity through celebrity influence.
However, concerns are growing about their health risks, particularly as they are not subject to the same regulations as tobacco or e-cigarettes and can legally be sold to minors. Many pouches contain high nicotine levels, exposing young people to addiction and other health problems without sufficient safety information. Teachers are being encouraged to raise awareness, monitor student behaviour, and remain vigilant to these products.
Source: Times Educational Supplement, 27 April 2025
Editorial note: The article refers to “illegal” high strength nicotine pouches, however these products are not currently illegal in the UK and there are no limits on nicotine content in pouches. The forthcoming Tobacco and Vapes Bill will introduce a minimum age of sale for pouches, ban advertising and give the government powers to restrict nicotine content, packaging and display. You can read more about the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, here.
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Shetland efforts to tackle youth vaping fall short as local issues persist
Shetland's trading standards team is working to prevent under-18s from buying vapes, conducting occasional checks with retailers to ensure age verification. Despite these efforts, young people continue to find ways to access vapes, often from other sources not monitored by authorities. The trading standards team faces challenges in conducting random checks due to limited volunteers and concerns about shop staff recognising underage purchasers. Despite these hurdles, the council remains committed to protecting the health of young people on the island.
Source: Shetland News, 25 April 2025
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Concerns raised over nutritional content of leading baby food pouches
An investigation into baby food pouches from six major UK brands has highlighted significant nutritional shortcomings, with products often lacking essential vitamins and minerals. Testing found that many pouches were low in key nutrients like iron and vitamin C, with some containing excessive sugar levels, far exceeding the daily recommended intake for infants. Experts warn that frequent use of these products, particularly as meal replacements, could lead to health issues such as tooth decay and poor growth. The findings also revealed that several brands failed to meet UK government and WHO guidelines, with calls for stricter regulation of baby food products.
Source: BBC, 28 April 2025
Editorial note: Media stories covering prevention of ill-health are being included in ASH Daily News because policy change in these areas is indicative of the Government’s position on prevention and their attitudes to harm-causing industries.
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Ultra-processed food linked to premature deaths, study reveals
A global study has linked high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and an increased risk of premature death. The research, conducted in several countries including the UK and the US, found that a 10% increase in UPF consumption raises the risk of dying before the age of 75 by 3%. The study estimates that in the US, 124,107 deaths annually are attributed to UPF, while in the UK, the number stands at 17,781. According the the researchers, the harmful effects are linked not only to the high levels of fat, sugar, and salt in these foods, but also to the additives their processing. The report calls for stronger government action to combat the growing health risks associated with UPFs including marketing and availability restrictions and fiscal measures.
Responding the study, a DHSC spokesperson highlighted the government's plan to restrict junk food advertising and give powers to councils to restrict takeaways opening near schools plus signalled their commitment to shift the focus from sickeness to prevention.
Source: The Guardian, 28 April 2025
See also: Nilson E, et al. Premature Mortality Attributable to Ultraprocessed Food Consumption in 8 Countries. AJPM. 2025. I Science Media Centre - expert reaction to study looking at ultra-processed food consumption and premature deaths
Editorial note: Media stories covering prevention of ill-health are being included in ASH Daily News because policy change in these areas is indicative of the Government’s position on prevention and their attitudes to harm-causing industries.
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ASH Daily News is a digest of published news on smoking-related topics. ASH is not responsible for the content of external websites. ASH does not necessarily endorse the material contained in this bulletin.
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