Nicotine pouches, known by various names such as Zyns, snus, or “little lip pillows,” are gaining popularity, particularly among the younger demographic. These discreet, flavored pouches are becoming a cause for concern due to their addictive nature and availability to minors.
Nicotine pouches represent the latest trend in nicotine consumption. These small, tea bag-like products are filled with nicotine and come in a variety of flavors such as mint, bubblegum, and mango. Users place them between their lip and gum, allowing the nicotine to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
“Nicotine pouches are discreet, smell good, and get you addicted to nicotine.” – Public Health Expert
Despite their popularity, these products pose a significant public health concern. They are particularly problematic as they are often virtually invisible, making it difficult for parents or guardians to detect their use.
Young people are increasingly drawn to nicotine pouches. Their discreet nature and the variety of flavors available make them an attractive alternative to traditional forms of nicotine consumption like smoking or vaping.
“In high school, a lot of people were doing it and that’s where I initially tried them.” – Young Nicotine Pouch User
The use of these pouches is being normalized among peers, with users able to consume them without attracting attention. This normalization is a significant concern, as it can lead to increased use and potential addiction.
Public health experts are alarmed by the rise in nicotine pouch use. They argue that these products are designed to be discreet and appealing, encouraging regular use and potentially leading to nicotine addiction.
Nicotine pouches are now being mentioned frequently in focus groups with young people. They are commonly purchased online or from tobacconists, despite not being legal products in some countries, including Australia.
In Australia, chewing tobacco was banned in 1991. Nicotine pouches fall into the same category as vapes, which are also prohibited from being imported and illegal to sell.
However, despite their illegal status, sales of nicotine pouches are booming. Many tobacconists continue to sell these products, and two of the largest tobacco companies, Philip Morris and British American Tobacco, have even created their own brands.
A medium-strength nicotine pouch contains about 10mg of nicotine, close to the 12mg found in an average cigarette. However, the nicotine in these pouches is more readily absorbed as it is not burnt like in a cigarette, meaning users can ingest a higher quantity.
The market for these products is currently unregulated in Australia, leading to pouches with up to 20 times the strength of a cigarette being available. This high nicotine content can lead to addiction and other health problems.
Long-term use of nicotine pouches can potentially cause gum problems, particularly gum ulceration, and open sores that do not heal. Users may also experience a burning sensation in their mouth.
Furthermore, nicotine is a highly addictive substance, and regular use can lead to dependence. Young people are particularly vulnerable to nicotine addiction, which can have long-term impacts on their physical and mental health.
The Australian Federal Health Department has expressed concern about the rise in nicotine pouch use and is assessing how to respond. The targeting of children and young people is of particular concern due to the health risks associated with nicotine use.
