Belgium considering ban on all vape flavors except tobacco to protect youth

Belgium considering ban on all vape flavors except tobacco to protect youth
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Belgium is moving to prohibit all e-cigarette flavors other than tobacco in a bid to curb youth nicotine addiction, Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke announced on Wednesday, following new guidance from the Superior Health Council.

According to the Anadolu Agency, Vandenbroucke argued that flavored vapes are intentionally crafted to attract children and obscure the health risks associated with vaping. The Superior Health Council, which recently revised its stance on vaping policy, now supports tighter restrictions. While it had previously hesitated to endorse a full flavor ban, the council says that shielding young people from addiction outweighs any potential benefits of flavored products for adult smokers seeking to quit.

Recent national surveys indicate a steep increase in vaping among Belgian students, with nearly one-third reporting they have tried e-cigarettes. Weekly use among youth has risen to four times the level recorded five years ago.

The government has not yet set a date for the measure to take effect, but Vandenbroucke said he intends to enforce the ban “as soon as possible.” The move follows earlier steps aimed at reducing youth smoking, including a prohibition on disposable vapes and new restrictions on smoking in areas commonly used by young people.