Table of Contents
WHAT ARE NIC POUCHES?
Tobacco free nicotine pouches are designed to release nicotine into the mouth where it is absorbed by the lining of the mouth. They are a form of tobacco-free nicotine and instead use plant fibres contained in a white pouch, with flavouring and sweeteners added, that delivers nicotine over time. Some use nicotine from the tobacco plant but others use synthetic nicotine, but do not use the tobacco leaf like the Swedish ‘Snus.’
2025 Update - If you have used nicotine pouches and found them to be just a little much and are looking for alternatives, or are a smoker looking to quit, then check out the new SMOKO VAPE MAX! This vape will deliver nicotine in a fashion similar to smoking but with 95% of the harm removed (according to Public Health England!)
INTRODUCTION
Smoking kills over 7 million people worldwide every year, with an estimated worldwide cost of 422 billion dollars US in healthcare for smoking attributable diseases in 2014 (1).
I think ‘crikey’ is the word you’re looking for.
With numbers like that, it’s not just understandable but favourable for us to use alternative means of getting nicotine. Nicotine replacement therapy led the way, with the nicotine patch, nicotine gum and lozenges, nicotine inhalator, and even medications to help smokers quit - like Varenicline.
The relatively recent invention of the e-cigarette provides an alternative to smoking as a way of consuming nicotine but without the same harm, and has reinvigorated the nicotine market.
Now, we are seeing a resurgence in the idea behind snuff - a form of smokeless tobacco that is typically snorted in its dry form, or placed/chewed in the mouth in its wet form. The product we are now seeing as the spiritual successor to snuff is the aptly named ‘nicotine pouch’. Tobacco free snus alternatives are also emerging as a modern and discreet option for nicotine consumption, offering quick relief from cravings without the drawbacks of traditional smoking methods.
WHAT IS A NICOTINE POUCH?
Nicotine pouches are a form of tobacco free nicotine - they come as little semi-permeable packets a few centimetres long and about a centimetre wide, though you can get larger ones. Nic pouches are discreet and convenient, making them ideal for use in places where vaping is prohibited, such as planes, offices, and other indoor spaces. A single pouch is placed between gum and lip, providing a slow release of nicotine for up to 60 minutes!
WHAT DOES A NICOTINE POUCH CONTAIN?
Nicotine pouches are available in a variety of nicotine strengths, ranging from 6 mg to 18 mg, catering to users of different experience levels. They are strictly white pouches, containing plant-based fibres, flavouring, sweeteners - and the all-important nicotine (2). The type of nicotine used varies between brands, some extracting nicotine from the tobacco plant, while some are using lab-created synthetic nicotine.
Unlike similar products - the Swedish Snus, for example - nicotine pouches don’t contain tobacco leaves, and instead use a dehydrated form of nicotine. This also means that nicotine pouches don’t need to be kept cold like Snus do!
BENEFITS OF USING NICOTINE POUCHES
Nicotine pouches offer a range of benefits for those looking for a tobacco-free alternative to traditional nicotine products. Some of the key benefits include:
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Convenience: Nic pouches are incredibly easy to use and can be taken anywhere. Whether you’re at work, traveling, or just out and about, these pouches make managing your nicotine cravings a breeze.
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Discretion: One of the standout features of nicotine pouches is their small and discreet nature. You can use them in public places where smoking or vaping might not be allowed, without drawing any unwanted attention.
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Tobacco-free: For those who want to avoid the health risks associated with tobacco use, nicotine pouches are a fantastic option. They are completely tobacco-free, offering a safer alternative to traditional tobacco products.
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Variety of strengths: Nicotine pouches come in a range of strengths, making it easy to find the right one to suit your needs. Whether you’re a light user or someone who needs a stronger dose, there’s a pouch for you.
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Flavour options: With a wide array of flavours available, nicotine pouches can make your nicotine experience more enjoyable. From minty freshness to fruity delights, there’s something for everyone.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT NICOTINE POUCH
Choosing the right nicotine pouch can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Here are a few things to consider when making your choice:
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Nicotine strength: Think about how much nicotine you need to manage your cravings. If you’re a heavy smoker, you might need a stronger nic pouch. On the other hand, if you’re a light smoker, a lower strength might be more suitable.
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Flavour: Consider what flavour you prefer. Nicotine pouches come in a range of flavours, from refreshing mint to sweet fruit. Finding a flavour you enjoy can make the experience more pleasant.
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Brand: The reputation of the brand is also important. Look for brands known for producing high-quality nicotine pouches. Reading reviews and doing a bit of research can help you make an informed decision.
NICOTINE POUCH STRENGTHS
Nicotine pouches come in a range of strengths, from 3mg to 24mg. The right strength for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a nicotine pouch strength:
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Light smokers: If you’re a light smoker, you may prefer a lower strength nicotine pouch, such as 3mg or 6mg. These lower strengths can help you manage your cravings without overwhelming your system.
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Heavy smokers: If you’re a heavy smoker, you might need a stronger nicotine pouch, such as 12mg or 24mg. These higher strengths can provide the nicotine hit you need to keep cravings at bay.
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Reducing nicotine intake: If you’re looking to reduce your nicotine intake, starting with a lower strength nicotine pouch and gradually increasing the strength as needed can be a good strategy. This approach allows you to control your nicotine consumption more effectively.
FLAVOURS AND OPTIONS
Nicotine pouches come in a range of flavours, from mint to fruit. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a flavour:
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Mint: Mint flavours are popular among nicotine pouch users, as they can help to freshen breath and leave a cooling sensation in the mouth. If you enjoy a crisp, clean taste, mint might be the way to go.
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Fruit: Fruit flavours are also popular and can add a sweet and tangy taste to your nic pouch experience. Whether you prefer the taste of berries, citrus, or tropical fruits, there’s likely a flavour that will suit your palate.
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Other options: Some nicotine pouch brands offer other flavour options, such as cinnamon or vanilla. These unique flavours can provide a different and enjoyable experience, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favourite!
NICOTINE POUCHES AND QUITTING SMOKING: HOW DO THEY WORK AS NICOTINE REPLACEMENT THERAPY?
When a nicotine pouch is placed in the mouth, nicotine is absorbed through the lining of the mouth. This will generate a tingling sensation or ‘burning’ where the patch is on the lip and gum - don’t worry, this is just the nicotine acting on the gums. For some users (me included!) this can be a bit much!
For a smoker trying to quit, nicotine pouches enable the consumption of nicotine without the other chemicals found in tobacco, or chemicals made by burning tobacco - a great first step. Additionally, nicotine pouches do not produce smoke, making them suitable for use in places where smoking is restricted.
Nicotine pouches also keep the mouth busy, which can help keep a smoker preoccupied!
This may be a viable option for smokers with a severe lung condition. Many SMOKO customers report breathing much better within weeks of switching to the SMOKO E-cigarette, but if you have been told you shouldn’t vape then nicotine pouches offer a strong enough substitute to work.
HOW TO USE NICOTINE POUCHES?
The first time you pick up a nicotine pouch, you might find yourself asking ‘where exactly am I supposed to put this? How do nicotine pouches work?’ The answer is - it’s up to you! Some people prefer placing it between the upper lip and gum, some prefer the bottom lip, to the sides of the mouth or around the front - it really doesn’t matter.
You will start to feel a tingling or burning sensation, and this can last a while - the nicotine strength of the pouch will affect this. The burn can be quite strong, and a shock for first time users, but often subsides after 15 minutes. Keeping the pouch in the mouth will deliver a steady supply of nicotine for up to an hour, though you can stop using the pouch whenever it suits you.
When you have had enough, just make sure to dispose of the nicotine pouch responsibly! Depending on the brand, there may be a compartment in the lid of the nicotine pouch tin solely for used pouches - so make use of this if there are no bins nearby.
The benefits nicotine pouches provide over tobacco products like Snus, snuff or chewing tobacco, are that it may be safer. These other tobacco products can cause gum disease, cavities and stained teeth, tooth loss and cancer of the mouth, throat, and pancreas (3).
HOW EFFECTIVE ARE NIC POUCHES?
Nicotine pouches are shaping up to be an effective way to reduce the harm done by tobacco products. One study that investigated the overall nicotine delivery of oral nicotine pouches compared with smoking cigarettes concluded that nicotine pouches can deliver enough nicotine to match the nicotine intake of a smoker (4).
Strong nicotine pouches are available in a variety of flavours and strengths, offering a convenient and discreet option for those seeking a strong nicotine experience.
The only drawback was the time frame - it took over an hour for the blood nicotine level to reach the maximum concentration, suggesting that the nicotine pouch could work as a slow acting nicotine supply, where an E-Cigarette (depending on the device) will take around ten minutes.
Seems like we’ve found the dream team!
One study investigated branded 4mg nicotine pouches compared to nicotine gum for addressing cravings and found that participants using the pouch experienced less irritability than those using nicotine gum. Users rated the pouch as more helpful for stopping smoking, and described it as ‘pleasant to use’.
Not quite how I’d describe it, but to each their own!
The approach of using two types of NRT is not a novel one, but could be an effective means of tackling nicotine cravings. As some forms of NRT are fast acting and others slow, it makes sense to combine the two to create a low but consistent level of nicotine, and use a fast acting product to address any sudden cravings.
ARE NICOTINE POUCHES SAFE?
The safety of tobacco free nicotine pouches is still being investigated, but it is likely that the pouches ‘expose users to lower levels of toxic compounds than Swedish snus’ (5). As snus use is already recognised as less harmful than tobacco smoking, this puts nicotine pouches close to forms of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) in terms of the level of toxicants they expose to the user.
NICOTINE POUCHES SIDE EFFECTS
New users should be aware of potential side effects, and these can include hiccups and upset stomach, and potentially a sore mouth.
WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING A NICOTINE POUCH?
Nicotine pouches are now available from a number of brands in a variety of strengths and flavours, so make sure you choose the right strength in your favourite flavour!
As the strength of the nic pouch can take users by surprise, it is suggested that users start on a low strength and work their way up - in my personal experience, I would strongly agree with this!
Checking company and product reviews should help you purchase with confidence, so make sure to do this when buying your nicotine pouches. Well established brands in the field, like Nordic, are a safe bet!
If you are a smoker, then choosing an E-Cigarette may be a better fit as the action of vaping is close to smoking, and gets nicotine into the system - a perfect match for tricking your brain into thinking it’s smoking! While some people may look to use a large vape pod, this may lead to vaper's cough, which is common with larger more powerful devices.
BRANDS AND QUALITY
When it comes to nicotine pouches, brand and quality are important considerations. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a nicotine pouch brand:
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Reputation: Look for brands that are known for producing high-quality nicotine pouches. A good reputation often indicates that the brand takes quality seriously and produces reliable products.
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Ingredients: Check the ingredients list to ensure the brand uses high-quality ingredients and avoids harsh chemicals. This can help you avoid any unwanted side effects and ensure a better overall experience.
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Reviews: Reading reviews from other customers can give you a sense of the brand’s reputation and the quality of their products. Look for feedback on the flavour, strength, and overall satisfaction to help guide your decision.
REPUTABLE NICOTINE POUCH BRANDS
Here are a few reputable nicotine pouch brands to consider:
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Velo: Velo is a popular nicotine pouch brand that offers a range of flavours and strengths. Known for their quality and consistency, Velo pouches are a reliable choice for many users.
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Elux: Elux is another well-regarded brand that provides a variety of flavours and strengths. Their commitment to quality makes them a trusted option in the nicotine pouch market.
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Lost Mary: Lost Mary is a reputable nicotine pouch brand that offers a diverse selection of flavours and strengths. With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, Lost Mary pouches are a great choice for those looking for a satisfying nicotine experience.
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Nordic Spirit: A well known nicotine pouch brand made in Sweden and Poland, widely available in the UK.
By considering these factors and exploring different options, you can find the nicotine pouch that best suits your needs and preferences.
NICOTINE POUCHES: A COMPLETE GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS - CONCLUSION
The nicotine pouch has been around since 2003, so it isn’t entirely new, but was only introduced to the UK in 2019 (6). With efforts to reduce the damage done by tobacco in full force, the nicotine pouch is rising to prevalence as another powerful weapon in our arsenal.
In my experience, the nicotine pouches do a superb job of occupying your mouth, and delivering sufficient nicotine to satisfy the greatest of cravings. The tingling/burning sensation may be too much for some users, so they may prefer other nicotine products.
Even if you are an E-Cigarette user, nicotine pouches could be a great option for those times you can’t get outside to a smoking area, like at the airport or when flying. It’s also worth noting that the impact on others is eliminated by using a nicotine pouch - there is no second hand smoke or E-Cigarette aerosol to speak of, so the social impact of your nicotine addiction is gone!!
If you already use nicotine pouches but still struggle with sudden cravings, consider picking up one of SMOKO’s E-cigarette starter kits today! It could be the secret weapon you've been missing!
REFERENCES
(1) Global economic cost of smoking-attributable diseases
(2) Nicotine Pouches: What to Know
(3) Smokeless and Other Noncigarette Tobacco Use and Pancreatic Cancer
(6) Tobacco-free Nicotine Pouch Use in Great Britain: A Representative Population Survey 2020 - 2021
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Written by Dan Overgage
Dan Overgage is a former smoker of 10 years until he became a client of SMOKO E-Cigarettes. Dan started working with SMOKO 5 years ago after successfully quitting using our e-cigarettes and works across our Customer Service and heads up our content creation and research with a strong focus on all things quitting smoking. During his tenure with SMOKO, Dan has written countless blogs and consults with countless clients every day to help them to stay smoke-free.
