The French government has officially banned Sniffy, a controversial white powder marketed as an energizing product, which was inhaled through the nose.

Health Minister Catherine Vautrin announced the ban on July 24, citing concerns over addiction and its resemblance to cocaine use.

The product, sold online and in some tobacco shops for €14.90, contained ingredients like caffeine and L-arginine, and was aimed at young consumers.

Vautrin had previously sought approval from the European Commission to enact this ban, which was welcomed by local officials in Marseille, where Sniffy was produced.

The decision has sparked discussions about the rising trend of energizing products and their potential health risks, especially among youth.