The French Minister of Health, Catherine Vautrin, has officially signed an order banning the controversial product known as 'Sniffy', a white powder marketed as an energizing supplement. This decision comes after months of public outcry and concerns from health professionals regarding the product's addictive potential and its resemblance to cocaine use. Vautrin expressed her fears about the habit-forming nature of the powder, highlighting its risks as it is often snorted, which raises alarms about its connection to illicit drugs.
The ban was initiated after France notified the European Commission of its intentions to prohibit the substance. The product, which has been sold in various flavors and marketed as a legal stimulant, has faced significant backlash from medical professionals who argue that its marketing strategy downplays its health risks. The Sniffy brand had claimed compliance with health regulations, but this has not alleviated concerns from addiction specialists and law enforcement agencies.
Despite being marketed as a harmless energy booster, the product's sale in tobacconists and online has raised issues about its accessibility to minors. The government aims to finalize the ban within the week, ensuring that the decree will be published in the Official Journal. The public's reaction has been one of outrage, with many calling the situation a 'huge scandal' due to the misleading nature of the product's promotion and its implications for public health.
- The Sniffy product, which had been available in multiple flavors such as mint and strawberry candy, was marketed to provide a quick energy boost, claiming to contain ingredients like caffeine and taurine. However, its method of consumption—snorting—has drawn comparisons to illegal drugs, prompting a strong response from health authorities. Experts have warned that the normalization of such products could lead to increased substance abuse among young people.
- The government’s decision to ban Sniffy is part of a broader strategy to combat the rising concerns over new psychoactive substances that mimic the effects of traditional drugs. The health ministry's proactive approach aims to prevent potential addiction crises and protect public health, especially among vulnerable populations like adolescents.
