Nicotine pouches
Nicotine pouches resemble snus, Swedish smokeless tobacco product, but do not contain tobacco. The product is a nicotine-containing smokeless product, a pouch used in the mouth like snus. Nicotine pouches may also be referred to as nicotine snus. In Sweden, they are called white snus.
Nicotine pouches differ from nicotine replacement therapy products sold as portion pouches in that they do not undergo the sales permit process required by pharmaceutical law. Even in the EU, there are very strong nicotine pouches on the market, with potentially dangerous levels of nicotine.
Nicotine pouches have recently entered the global market, and their sales are growing rapidly. Flavorings increase the attractiveness of nicotine pouches among young people. According to extensive international research, young people prefer flavored nicotine pouches, with the most popular flavors being mint and menthol.
For the tobacco and nicotine industry, flavorings are a way to attract new customers. Some ingredients in nicotine pouches, such as alkaline substances that raise the pH level, can also enhance the release of nicotine.
Nicotine is harmful to health
There is little information about the health effects of nicotine pouches, as they have only been on the market for a short time. However, it is known that nicotine causes strong addiction and health problems. For example, it raises blood pressure, strains the heart, and increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. In young people, nicotine can cause permanent changes in the brain.
Nicotine is a poison. In adults, 60 mg of nicotine absorbed into the body can be a lethal amount if the person has not been previously exposed to nicotine.