Are Nicotine Pouches Being Regulated?

Nicotine pouches have become increasingly popular in the UK. They are widely available and usually come in multiple flavours, such as mint and berries. Some of the most famous brands include Velo and Zyn, which are made by big tobacco companies like British American Tobacco (BAT) and Philip Morris International (PMI).

Read on to find out more about nicotine pouches and whether they are being regulated in the UK.

What Are Nicotine Pouches and How Do They Work?

Like the name suggests, nicotine pouches are simply nicotine packed into tiny pouches, similar to teabags. They also contain other ingredients like flavourings and fillers. Unlike cigarettes and vapes, they don’t produce smoke or vapour and are considered an alternative to help reduce smoking.

To use them, take a pouch and place it under your tongue or between your lip and gum. You can leave it there anywhere from 5 to 60 minutes. The powder in the pouch, which mainly contains nicotine, dissolves and enters your bloodstream.

Nicotine Pouches vs Snus

Nicotine pouches and snus share many similarities. They both come in small pouches and are used by placing them under the tongue or behind the lip. Both deliver nicotine without the need for smoking or vaping.

However, there are important differences. Snus is most commonly used in Sweden and Norway and is made from real tobacco leaves, treated to remove some harmful ingredients. Even though it doesn’t require smoking, it still contains tobacco and can have some of the effects of smoking.

Nicotine pouches, on the other hand, don’t include tobacco leaves. They are made with nicotine extracted from the tobacco plant and mixed with flavourings, making them tobacco-free. Because of this, nicotine pouches fall under the General Product Safety Regulations (GPSR), with fewer restrictions than the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations (TRPR).

While snus is banned in the UK (and most of Europe), nicotine pouches are legal and are marketed as cleaner, safer alternatives with fewer risks.

How Much Nicotine is in Nicotine Pouches?

Just like e-liquids or vape juice, nicotine pouches come in various strengths. Some have low nicotine, some are mild, and others are considered strong. Most nicotine pouches in the UK contain 6 mg to 20 mg of nicotine per pouch, but stronger or lighter options are available.

Current UK Regulations

Currently, nicotine pouches are not strictly regulated. There are no age or nicotine strength limits, and no specific rules on packaging, flavours, or marketing. Because they don’t contain actual tobacco and are not smoked or inhaled, they fall under the General Product Safety Regulations, which cover a wide range of consumer goods.

The UK government had introduced the Tobacco and Vapes Bill to bring in stricter rules, but the bill was paused due to the general election. Many expect it could return soon.

Should Nicotine Pouches Be Restricted?

The lack of restrictions has raised concerns. Young people may have easier access to nicotine pouches, and their small size, lack of smoke or smell, and variety of flavours make them easy to hide. Health experts, teachers, and parents are concerned about potential underage use.

We support age restrictions and responsible distribution, similar to rules for cigarettes and vapes. Awareness among parents, schools, and communities is crucial to protect young people.

Should Nicotine Pouches Be Banned?

Nicotine pouches have an important role as a safer alternative for adults trying to quit smoking. They don’t produce smoke, so they pose fewer risks to the lungs than cigarettes.

Instead of a full ban, regulated use seems a better solution. This would allow for:

• Age restrictions (18+)

• Proper labelling

• Responsible sale practices

At the same time, adults trying to quit smoking can continue benefiting from these cleaner alternatives.

Do Nicotine Pouches Have Side Effects?

Like any nicotine product, pouches can have side effects depending on usage. New users may experience dizziness or nausea, especially if consumed in large amounts. Leaving a pouch in the mouth too long may cause sore gums.

There is also a risk of addiction, particularly for children and young adults, highlighting the importance of regulations and responsible use. Nicotine pouches are meant for adults only.

FAQs

Are Nicotine Pouches Legal in the UK?

Yes, nicotine pouches are legal in the UK. Make sure to buy from trusted stores or websites, as they are also available in many supermarkets. 

Will New Laws Be Introduced for Nicotine Pouches in the UK?

Currently, there are no regulations in place. However, it’s likely that regulations will appear soon. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, when reintroduced, could enforce rules like banning sales to under-18s, setting maximum nicotine strengths, and restricting child-attractive packaging.