What is a Nicotine Pouch?

Origins from Swedish Snus

Snus (pronounced "snoo-s") is a tobacco product originating in Sweden centuries ago. Unlike cigarettes, it's smokeless. Swedes typically place a pinch of loose snus or a pre-packaged portioned snus (contained in a small pouch) under their upper lip, between the gum and lip. It stays there for an extended period, releasing nicotine slowly through the saliva.

Unlike some other smokeless tobacco products, snus doesn't require spitting. It comes in various flavors, though they're typically subtle compared to cigarette flavors. Snus use is particularly popular among men in Sweden and is deeply ingrained in their culture. It's important to remember, however, that snus still contains tobacco and carries health risks despite being regulated as a food product in Sweden.

Development of Nicotine Pouches

The issue is that snus was still derived from tobacco leaves, and despite its possible advantages over smoking, it wasn't without its own health risks. Scientists stepped in to create a tobacco-free solution, drawing inspiration from the centuries-old Swedish tradition.

They recognized the appeal of snus's discreet placement under the lip and its sustained nicotine delivery. But the lingering presence of tobacco was a problem. Advancements in nicotine extraction and synthesis were the keys to their innovation. They figured out how to create nicotine entirely in a lab.

Smoking/Vaping Cessation

Nicotine pouches can be a potential aid in quitting smoking or vaping  by addressing two key challenges: withdrawal symptoms and the behavioral aspects of smoking.

• Cravings: Nicotine is the addictive ingredient in cigarettes & vapes, and quitting creates intense cravings. Nicotine pouches deliver a controlled dose of nicotine, helping to reduce cravings and making them more manageable. This makes it easier to resist the urge to light up a cigarette.

• Withdrawal Effects: Quitting smoking can trigger unpleasant withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and trouble concentrating. The nicotine in pouches can alleviate these symptoms, making the quitting process less uncomfortable

• Simpler Ingredients: Nicotine pouches often contain fewer ingredients than vape liquids. While e-liquids vary in composition, they frequently include propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavorings, and nicotine. Nicotine pouches are typically simpler, primarily containing nicotine, fillers, flavorings, and pH adjusters. This simplicity could mean potentially lower exposure to unknown long-term effects of certain vaping additives.