(MENAFN) Belgium plans to prohibit all e-cigarette flavors except tobacco in an effort to prevent nicotine addiction among young people, Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke announced, according to reports. The move follows updated guidance from the Superior Health Council.

Vandenbroucke said that flavored e-cigarettes are “deliberately designed to appeal to children and mask the potential harms of vaping,” as stated by reports.

The Superior Health Council recently revised its stance on vaping regulations. While previously cautious about a total flavor ban, the council now supports stricter limits, arguing that safeguarding young people outweighs any potential benefit of allowing some flavors to assist adult smokers in quitting.

National surveys indicate a sharp rise in vaping among school students, with nearly one-third having tried e-cigarettes. Weekly use among youth is reportedly four times higher than it was five years ago.

The government has not yet specified when the ban will take effect, but Vandenbroucke said he hopes to implement it “as soon as possible.”

The proposed measure builds on earlier youth-focused policies, including bans on disposable vapes and restrictions on smoking in areas frequented by young people.

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