‑Are smoke-free alternatives better alternatives

Question for written answer E-004350/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Kristoffer Storm (ECR)

Independent authorities point to the fact that smoke-free tobacco and nicotine products expose users to substantially reduced levels of harmful chemicals compared to cigarettes. The Food and Drug Administration has concluded that nicotine pouch products, for example, have potential to benefit adults who smoke cigarettes and/or use other smokeless tobacco products that is sufficient to outweigh the potential risks of the products, including for young people. Also, Cochrane has found evidence that nicotine e-cigarettes, for example, help more people to stop smoking than nicotine replacement therapy. Since smoking can cause early death, it seems clear that smoke-free tobacco and nicotine products constitute a worthwhile harm reduction strategy. This has had positive effects in Sweden where smoking incidence is among the lowest in the EU as well as lung cancer incidence among males.

• 1.Does the Commission acknowledge that smoke-free tobacco and nicotine products contribute to the reduction of smoking rates in the EU?
• 2.Does the Commission acknowledge that there is less of a health risk when using smoke-free tobacco and nicotine products, as opposed to combustible smoking?

Submitted: 5.11.2025