Are Nicotine Pouches Safe to Use?

Terri Adams

23/08/2024 • 5 min read

Understanding Nicotine Pouches: A Safer Alternative?

Nicotine pouches have gained significant traction as an alternative to traditional tobacco products, offering a smokeless and often tobacco-free option for those looking to satisfy their nicotine cravings. With the rise of popular brands like Zyn, Velo, and Nordic Spirit, many consumers turn to these products as a perceived safer option. But are nicotine pouches truly safe to use? This article will explore the side effects, risks, and overall safety of nicotine pouches to help you make an informed decision.

Are Nicotine Pouches Safe to Use?

Nicotine pouches are often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking because they do not involve combustion or inhalation of smoke. Unlike cigarettes or even smokeless tobacco products like snus, nicotine pouches are typically tobacco-free, reducing exposure to many harmful chemicals found in tobacco. However, while they may be less harmful than smoking, nicotine pouches are not entirely risk-free. The primary concern with these products lies in their nicotine content, which can still pose significant health risks.

Side Effects of Nicotine Pouches

While nicotine pouches are generally considered to have fewer side effects than smoking, they come with their own concerns. Some of the short-term side effects reported by users include:

Nausea: New users or those using higher nicotine concentrations might experience nausea as their bodies adjust.
Hiccups: The irritation caused by nicotine can sometimes lead to hiccups, particularly if the pouch is not positioned correctly.
Sore Mouth: Frequent use or prolonged contact of the pouch with the gum can result in soreness.
Irritation in the Mouth: Nicotine and other chemicals in the pouches can cause irritation to the mucous membranes in the mouth, leading to discomfort.

Risks Associated with Nicotine Pouches

Although nicotine pouches are perceived as a less harmful option, there are still several long-term risks associated with their use:

Oral Cancer: While nicotine itself does not directly cause cancer, it can promote the growth of existing tumours. Additionally, nicotine pouches have been found to contain tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), which are known carcinogens. This increases the risk of cancers in the mouth, throat, and pancreas.
Dental Issues: Nicotine can reduce blood flow to the gums, leading to gum recession, increased risk of gum disease, and potential tooth loss over time.
Heart Disease and Stroke: Nicotine affects the cardiovascular system, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke due to increased blood pressure and heart rate.
Lung Function: Long-term nicotine use, even through non-combustible forms like pouches, has been linked to a decline in lung function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions.
Addiction: Nicotine is highly addictive, and regular use of nicotine pouches can lead to dependence, making it challenging for users to quit.

Do Nicotine Pouches Cause Cancer?

The relationship between nicotine pouches and cancer is complex. Nicotine itself doesn’t directly cause cancer, but it can exacerbate the growth of existing tumours by acting as a tumour promoter. More concerning is the presence of tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs) in nicotine pouches, which are known to be carcinogenic. While these products are considered less harmful than smoking, regular use can still increase the risk of cancers, particularly in the mouth, throat, and pancreas.

Are Nicotine Pouches Bad for You?

Nicotine pouches are often marketed as a “less harmful” alternative to smoking because they do not involve the inhalation of smoke and typically do not contain tobacco. However, this does not mean they are entirely safe. The absence of tobacco does reduce exposure to some harmful chemicals, but the nicotine in these pouches still poses significant health risks. Users should understand that “less harmful” does not equate to “safe,” and the potential for addiction and other health issues remains a concern.

Do Nicotine Pouches Damage Gums?

Nicotine pouches can indeed cause damage to the gums. Here’s how: Gum Recession: Nicotine causes vasoconstriction, which reduces blood flow to the gums. Over time, this can lead to gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth and potentially leading to tooth loss.

Gum Disease: The reduced blood flow and oxygen levels in the gums can impair their ability to heal, increasing the risk of gum disease. If left untreated, this condition can cause swelling, bleeding, and even tooth loss.
Irritation and Inflammation: The direct contact of nicotine pouches with the gums can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to discomfort and potential long-term damage.
Leukoplakia: Chronic irritation from nicotine pouches can result in leukoplakia, a condition characterised by white patches on the gums. Leukoplakia is considered a precancerous condition and should be monitored closely.

Zyn, Velo, Nordic Spirit, Snus

There are several popular brands in the nicotine pouch market, each offering unique features and flavour options. Here’s a brief overview:

Zyn: Zyn nicotine pouches are tobacco-free and are popular for being discreet, smoke-free, and spit-free. They come in many flavours, including Cool Mint, Citrus, and Coffee, catering to different preferences.
Velo: Velo offers a wide range of tobacco-free nicotine pouches, known for their convenience and variety of flavours, such as Mint, Berry, and Citrus. These pouches are also smoke-free and spit-free, making them easy to use anywhere.
Nordic Spirit: Made from plant-based ingredients, Nordic Spirit pouches are 100% tobacco-free and provide a steady release of nicotine. Available in flavours like Sweet Mint, Raspberry, and Frosty Berry, they are designed for discreet use anytime, anywhere.
Snus: Snus is a traditional smokeless tobacco product from Sweden, available in both loose and portioned forms. It is known for its strong nicotine content and a variety of flavours, such as bergamot, citrus, juniper berry, and herbs.

Is Velo Harmful?

Velo is one of the leading brands in the nicotine pouch market, offering a variety of flavours and nicotine strengths. While Velo is popular for its convenience and flavour options, it shares the same risks as other nicotine pouches. The potential for gum damage, addiction, and long-term health risks such as heart disease and cancer still exist, making it important for users to be aware of these risks when choosing to use Velo or any other nicotine pouch brand.

Weighing the Risks of Nicotine Pouches

While nicotine pouches offer a less harmful alternative to smoking, they are not without risks. Users should be aware of the short-term side effects, potential long-term health risks, and the possibility of addiction. Brands like Zyn, Velo, and Nordic Spirit may offer a tobacco-free option, but they still carry health risks that should not be ignored. If you're considering using nicotine pouches, it's important to weigh the benefits against these risks and consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns.