The German parliament voted by a supermajority to approve a revision of the tobacco products bill. According to the amendment, the packaging of heated tobacco rods must have text and graphic warning signs. In addition, the flavoring ban will be extended to heated tobacco rod products.
Burkhard Blienert, Germany's federal medicines commissioner, called the bill "an important step for more health protection". But he also said that this can only be the beginning.
"Fragrances and flavorings add to the appeal of a product and mask the dangers associated with smoking."
Brinett also called for tighter restrictions on vaping. He pointed out that children also use disposable e-cigarettes with high concentrations of nicotine, which is also related to its rich taste. In addition, many e-cigarettes are brightly colored and small enough to fit easily in a pencil case, and are often less expensive.
Blinnett emphasized that the advertising ban on vaping products and e-cigarettes needs to go further. Flavored tobacco products are often seen as a gateway product to smoking, experts say.
It is reported that the ban on flavored tobacco only applies to cigarettes and heated tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes are not affected by this new ban.