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Nicotine Education Team

Beginners Guide to Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches | Everything You Need to Know

Updated: Jan 11


Multiple Nicotine Pouch Cans


So, you have been on the lookout to try to end your smoking habit… but don't know where to start yet? Well, fret not! You are at the right place. Whether you want to completely stop nicotine or continue taking it because it helps you stay focused, Tobacco-free Nicotine Pouches are your best bet.


By the end of this article, you will understand what Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches are and whether they are an excellent fit for you. So, let's dive in!



 

Table of Content



 


What are Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches?


Killa Nicotine Pouch Can

As the name suggests, these products contain nicotine; however, they lack the conventionally present tobacco in traditional nicotine products such as Cigarettes and Vapes. So how does that happen? You ask. Naturally, the nicotine in cigarettes is extracted from the Tobacco-leaf alongside, of course, the tobacco. These products are manufactured so that no traces of tobacco exist.


Then how do we get the nicotine? Great question! Manufacturers could design a technology to synthesise the nicotine that would resemble the one extracted from the tobacco leaf. This technology of Tobacco-Free Nicotine was an ideal way to utilise the effects of nicotine without the harmful toxic effects of tobacco itself!


This is how nicotine pouches came into existence. Small pouches can be kept between the gum and the lips to achieve the same sensation as smoking a cigarette or vape, except without the tar and tobacco.

 

How are Nicotine Pouches Made?


Open can showing nicotine pouches


The primary ingredients in nicotine pouches are nicotine, water, flavourings, sweeteners, and other plant-based fibres. They are available in various strengths based on the intensity of the nicotine in the pouch. Hence, making it an excellent option for individuals with different nicotine needs. These pouches are available in several flavours, from Blueberry to Watermelon, to suit the users' desires.


A common point of confusion would be differentiating such Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches from Snus. Are they the same? Nope. Like nicotine pouches, Snus contains nicotine; however, they have traces of finely grounded tobacco present, differentiating them from Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches.

 

How to use Nicotine Pouches?


Now that you have a nuanced understanding of Tobacco-free Nicotine Pouches let's see how to use them precisely.

How to use nicotine pouches

Where to place the pouch in the mouth?


You could place the pouches in your mouth in a few places, depending on your preference and comfort. The most common placement of the pouch would be between the inner cheek/gums and the teeth themselves. You could keep the pouches in the upper or lower mouth based on how you like it.


Placing the pouch in the lower mouth would be ideal since it wouldn't interfere with your daily work and be completely discreet. It wouldn't sneak out into the view of your friends when speaking or laughing!


Now that you have found the sweet spot to devour your favourite nicotine pouch, what's next?


Depending on your natural response, you may feel a tingling or slight burning sensation relative to your previous nicotine habits, or you may not feel anything! This is when the nicotine in the pouches starts to be absorbed into your body through the gums, and you should start feeling the magic.


How long do nicotine pouches take to work?


Typically, you would expect to start feeling tingling within 0-13 minutes, depending on whether it is your first time or you have been using it frequently.


If you are new to using nicotine pouches, we recommend keeping them in your mouth for a shorter duration of around 10 minutes to get yourself used to it. Once you have found the ideal strength and flavour, enjoy them for longer!


With our perfectly engineered design, they are perfect for whenever you want to use them and anytime. Whether you are out on the go or in the workplace, our nicotine pouches are perfect for every occasion and every location!


How to dispose of the nicotine pouches?


Now that you have enjoyed the nicotine kick you needed, disposing of it safely is essential. Our nicotine pouches come in a can with two components: a base and a lid. The lid can be used to store the pouches that you have used.


One unique aspect of our nicotine pouch is that they are biodegradable and recyclable, including the can itself too!



 

Who should use nicotine pouches?


Nicotine pouches on the hand

Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches are strictly meant to be used by individuals over 18.


Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches are only meant for individuals who were previously smoking or are currently and would like to opt for a safer alternative to help them gradually taper down the nicotine.


This applies to individuals who want to quit vaping as well.


"Evidence shows these products [nicotine pouches] could help addicted smokers who use the most harmful combusted products completely switch to a product with potentially fewer harmful chemicals," Mitch Zeller, director of the FDA's Center for Tobacco Products, said in an FDA press statement last fall.



 


History of Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches



While nicotine pouches are new, they are comparable to Swedish snus. Niconovum, a modest start-up firm, created the first pouch product in the early 2000s. This firm registered the product in 2008 as a therapeutic nicotine replacement medication containing 2 mg. Niconovum was purchased by RJ Reynolds (now British American Tobacco) in 2009. The cigarette businesses, notably Swedish Match, started getting involved in the pouch market. Sweden's biggest snus makers, including Swedish Match, Skruf, and AG Snus, developed nicotine pouch brands (ZYN, Shiro, Swave, and so on) in response to consumer desire for a nicotine alternative with less visible consumption and no tobacco trace in it.


Nicotine Pouches in the UK


This amounts to 130,000 nicotine pouch users in the United Kingdom, with 110,000 in England, 14,000 in Scotland, and 6,000 in Wales. Pouches are becoming more common, with twice as many individuals using them in October 2021 as in November 2020.


It was found that men have a higher prevalence than women, while young or middle-aged persons have a higher usage than the elderly. These findings are like data from online surveys conducted in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and the United States, revealing a low incidence of nicotine pouch usage in women and older individuals. They also reflect historical gender inequalities in Nordic nations' snus use (tobacco-containing pouches).


They also discovered that people who used other nicotine products and had a smoking history were likelier to utilise nicotine pouches. This means that pouches are unlikely to attract many people in the UK who would otherwise shun nicotine. Nonetheless, nicotine pouches may take years to gain mainstream acceptance. It is probable that, as innovations spread, the "early adopters" of nicotine pouches will have different features than the bulk of consumers after the market has reached saturation. Early adopters of e-cigarettes, for example, may have come from more affluent backgrounds than subsequent users. As a result, ongoing monitoring of the features of persons who use nicotine pouches is required.



 

Benefits of Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches




Lowering the recognised dangers linked with smoking


The hazards of smoking are very apparent, and various studies have been able to establish for years the damaging effect of nicotine on smokers' health. Smokers are more vulnerable, with a considerably greater death rate than former smokers. As the Ministry of Health states, cigarettes cause one-third of all malignancies, the vast majority of which harm the lungs. Smoking also increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disorders (particularly myocardial infarction) and chronic respiratory ailments. Nicotine pouches eliminate all of these hazards since they do not include tobacco.


Clearance of all combustion and toxic material absorption by the lungs


Contrary to common opinion, nicotine in cigarette smoke is not harmful to one's health and is not even carcinogenic. Tobacco combustion exposes smokers to hazardous chemicals. Toxic gases (including carbon monoxide), heavy metals, and tars are breathed with each puff of cigarette smoke due to the addition of additives by tobacco firms. The pouches disperse nicotine and aromas orally by moistening under the lip, keeping your lungs from always breathing hazardous chemicals.


Absence of passive smoking exposure


The nicotine pouches, by definition, do not emit smoke and are utilised without combustion or vaporisation. Hence, they do not cause passive smoking, and there is no threat to anyone around you.


100% Tobacco-Free


In contrast to snus, nicotine pouches only contain aromas and nicotine. No more cigarette toxins, and goodbye to yellow tooth stains!


Discrete and useful


Most nicotine pouch deliveries come in rounded or rectangular packaging. They tuck into a shirt or trouser pocket, or even a purse. They are lightweight and offer a separate area for storing your used pouches.

Recyclable Packaging


We use recyclable cans to pack our nicotine sachets. Killa Store UK urges you to use the yellow trash bin to dispose of your empty boxes in an environmentally friendly manner. Let's advance the environment one step further together. Please be aware that some nicotine pouches may not be biodegradable, per the makers. Thus you will need to discard the used pouch separately.



 


Who should not use Nicotine Pouches?


Nicotine pouch effect in pregnancy

Using nicotine pouches improperly or excessively might hinder your efforts to stop smoking, even if they can be helpful. It might be simple to take more than you need or what is advised in 24 hours because they are as sweet as candy and are available when needed.


Users should gradually wean off the dose over the appropriate amount of time when using nicotine pouches. Long-term improper usage might increase your chance of experiencing significant side effects and withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety; irritability; headache; and intense cravings for nicotine.


We advise following the following rules to make sure that our goods are consumed safely and responsibly:


  1. Prevent children and animals from accessing pouches.

  2. Avoid ingesting pouches.

  3. Avoid using our pouches while driving or using large machinery.

  4. If you are allergic to any components indicated on the packaging, use caution when using our pouches.

  5. If you encounter any adverse side effects while using our pouches, stop taking them and seek medical advice.

  6. Nicotine pouches have the potential for adverse side effects, just like any other nicotine product: Heartburn, indigestion, nausea, a sore throat, and hiccups are some of the frequent adverse effects.

  7. When utilising any nicotine replacement treatment, nicotine overdose is also a possibility. Symptoms of excess include an intense headache, vertigo spells, passing out or extreme exhaustion, hearing impairment or distortion, blurred or distorted sight, a cold sweat, vomiting, stomach pains or upset, mental disorientation, and drooling.

  8. Before using any nicotine product, you must talk to a healthcare provider if you're pregnant, planning to be, or are currently nursing.


 

Misconceptions about Nicotine Pouches


It is messy to use nicotine pouches.


Smoking and spitting are not involved while using a nicotine pouch. For people who previously had to make significant efforts to use nicotine products secretly, nicotine pouches can be a saviour. The days of seeking out a secluded area away from the public to get your nicotine fix are long gone. Thanks to their discreet design and usage, nicotine pouches empower people to enjoy nicotine without disturbance or social shame. In addition to being smokeless, nicotine pouches produce extremely little waste, making them an ecologically beneficial choice.


Nicotine pouches are expensive.


Making room for what you enjoy in life is crucial, no matter your spending limit. Regardless of the product or mode of delivery you choose, nicotine may become pricey. It's a fallacy, though, that daily nicotine use needs to be expensive or that there aren't any feasible alternatives. Nicotine pouches are affordable and an excellent choice for those on a budget because of their range of selections, strengths, and prolonged shelf life.


Nicotine is cancer-causing


Cancer is not caused by nicotine. The tar and other harmful substances in tobacco, such as carbon monoxide, have cancer-causing qualities. It is now understood that tobacco smoke includes more than 70 compounds known to cause cancer. Products like nicotine pouches satisfy your body's demand for nicotine while removing the carcinogenic combustibles.



It is risky to use more than one nicotine product at once


Combination treatment, or mixing and matching nicotine products, is acceptable. According to studies, caution is advisable when deciding how much to consume. Two examples are using excessive amounts of nicotine pouches daily or covering yourself with nicotine patches.


Nicotine Pouches are harmful to the gums.


No research exists to support the idea that nicotine pouches increase the risk of gum disease or tooth loss, but there are also no studies to support the opposite claim. Gum disease is mainly brought on by poor dental hygiene and an excessively sugary diet worldwide. Plaque builds up on teeth if not cleaned often, irritating your gums.

Remember that having a pouch in the mouth for seven hours can force plaque (from everything you've consumed) up against your teeth and gums. To prevent this, we advise changing the bag after 30 minutes.


Tobacco is found in nicotine pouches.


Nicotine pouches do not contain tobacco and are not snus. They only contain nicotine, a substance extracted from the tobacco plant and crystallised into a salt. The items are then flavoured and packed with cellulose grains to thicken the pouch.


Treatments to quit smoking do not work.


According to research, using nicotine pouches and other cessation aids might increase your chances of quitting by a factor of two. All methods for quitting smoking are more effective when used with a support system. Examples of such a system include:

· Selecting a quit date.

· Talking to a network when you're nervous.

· a plan for when you want cigarettes.


It is too late to stop smoking, and the damage is irreversible.


When a smoker quits at any age, many of the negative health impacts of smoking quickly disappear and, more importantly, do not worsen. If you stop smoking before 50, your chance of passing away within 15 years is cut in half. After around three years, the possibility of a heart attack decreases by approximately 50%. Your chance of developing lung cancer reduces by over half in ten years. One of the finest things you can do for your health is to stop smoking.



 

Popular Tobacco-Free Nicotine Pouches


KILLA


killa nicotine cold mint can


KILLA is a well-known brand of nicotine pouches highly regarded by the nicotine pouch community. They are known for their strong nicotine kick and carefully crafted flavour blends. Made with high-quality ingredients, they offer the best taste and experience available on the market. These pouches come in various delicious flavours and are tobacco-free and smokeless, making them a healthier alternative to traditional nicotine products. In addition to being convenient and satisfying, Killa Nicotine pouches also help reduce the environmental impact of nicotine consumption. They are biodegradable and do not produce any secondhand smoke.


ZYN


zyn peppermint nicotine pouch tin

Swedish Match created and designed the ZYN product line, one of the oldest in the business. Despite having their roots in Scandinavia, they have risen to prominence in the American market. They provide Limited Edition flavours for collectors with a large selection of flavours, sizes, and intensities. It can be hard to pick a favourite from the various alternatives, but the Ginger Blood Orange and Lemon Spritz taste stand out for their delicate harmony of spice and sweetness. They are highly recommended for people seeking a high-quality smokeless tobacco product.


On!


On nicotine pouch tin can

On! is a company we like since they look at the market differently. They don't have a lot of flavour options or potent nicotine levels. Instead, they provide dry, little servings in small, proper square containers. If you pick On!, you choose an intelligently constructed taste choice that prioritises authenticity over sweetness. They are also perfect for persons who wish to smoke discreetly. At the same time, work, meetings, or anyplace else because the amounts are so tiny that they are virtually undetectable to anybody nearby. If we pick just one, our preferred taste would be On! Coffee. It tastes like roasted coffee beans rather than sweet like other coffee flavours—a delicious and mature choice.


ACE


ace nicotine pouch tin can

ACE Super white is brought to you by the Danish "Ministry of Snus". They offer a range of solid and unique flavours, constantly updating their offerings based on consumer demand. With ACE, you can expect the highest standards as the brand is built on four generations of snus-making expertise. Regarding environmental responsibility, ACE uses recycled plastics for their cans and locally sourced pine trees for the paper of their pouches. Our favourite ACE pouch is ACE Eucalyptus. It is strong but not overpowering, and the flavour, a combination of strong mint and icy menthol with a smooth and herbal Eucalyptus, is delicious. It is one of the best herbal pouches on the market!


Nordic Spirit


nordic spirit nicotine pouch can

Japan Tobacco International (JTI) introduced Nordic Spirit, a line of tobacco-free nicotine pouches, in 2018 and 2019 for the UK market. Developed in Sweden, the product quickly gained popularity after its launch. The 100% tobacco-free pouches provide an additional option for adult smokers and vapers in the UK. They are a convenient and discreet way to consume nicotine when smoking or vaping is prohibited. These pouches can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. They cater to the changing preferences of adult smokers and vapers seeking an alternative nicotine product, whether on a long-haul flight, in the office, or while socialising with friends.


Velo


veto nicotine ice cool nicotine pouch tin can

Velo is a well-known brand of nicotine pouches that Lyft rebranded in 2022. They are known for using high-quality ingredients and offer various flavours, such as Elderflower Spritz, Winter Chill and Creamy Coffee.


Pablo


Pablo nicotine ice cold nicotine pouch tin can

Another great nicotine blaster comes from the manufacturer of the famous Killa Nicotine Pouches, Pablo! It is packed with intense nicotine strength that surprises even the most loyal nicotine lovers! They are perfect for those who desire high amounts of nicotine but don't want to smoke tobacco. The pouches come in attractive packaging and are available in various flavours to suit the user.


The product has the following properties: It is entirely free of tobacco, contains no carcinogens or other impurities, has an extra-high nicotine concentration, is made entirely of natural ingredients, has the fastest nicotine absorption, is designed for true nicotine lovers, is reasonably priced, comes in portable packets, and comes in a range of flavours. Its ingredients include water, cellulose, a humectant, a preservative, nicotine, and natural flavouring agents.


BLCK


BLCK blueberry nicotine pouch tin can

The all-new BLCK is entering the nicotine niche by providing an intensely fruity, flavorful blast! Another great nicotine kicker from the makers of Killa and Pablo Nicotine Pouches. It is a beautiful match for those who wish to experience tropical fruity nicotine-infused flavours without smoking tobacco!


XTRIM and XTRIME-X


extreme lime nicotine pouch tin can

Introducing a brand-new, thrilling line of nicotine pouches, XTRIME and XTRIME-X, will leave you with a sensation unmatched by anything you have ever felt. These pouches are fantastic for individuals who want a cold, refreshing nicotine dose without the harshness of typical tobacco products.


XTRIME pouches are a better alternative to smoking cigarettes since they are utterly devoid of tobacco, tar, and toxins. They come in a range of relaxing flavours that will leave your taste buds feeling renewed and revitalised, they are smoke-free, cruelty-free, and vegan-friendly.



 

Are Nicotine Pouches Legal?


Are Nicotine Pouches Legal in the Europen Union?


While nicotine pouches are not currently covered by tobacco product legislation, tobacco snus is prohibited across the whole EU.


Scandinavian region of Europe: Sweden is immune from the EU's snus ban. Considering that nicotine pouches were designed to spit out and that most of the substance was absorbed through the mouth rather than the stomach, the Swedish National Food Administration recommended in 2019 that they should no longer be regulated as food. In Norway, snus is currently allowed to purchase. However, nicotine pouches are not.


In Germany, too, the German Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) stated that these items could not be sold lawfully since they were neither covered by the tobacco laws nor classified as foods.


Are Nicotine Pouches Legal in the UK?


Yes, Nicotine Pouches are legal to consume. However, only adults over the age of 18 can do so.


Are Nicotine Pouches Legal in the US?


Yes, Nicotine Pouches are legal in the United States for individuals over 21.

Congress approved a federal law on April 14, 2022, establishing the FDA's jurisdiction to control tobacco products containing nicotine from any source in light of the rise of Non-Tobacco Nicotine in well-known tobacco products.


This statute establishes regulations under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) for producers, importers, sellers, and distributors of Non-Tobacco Nicotine goods. It gives FDA control over items created using Non-Tobacco Nicotine, including synthetic nicotine. If Non-Tobacco Nicotine product manufacturers want to put their goods on the market, they must file a premarket application and get FDA approval, failing which they risk FDA penalties.


Following the passing of the new law, FDA made it clear that no tobacco products, including those containing nicotine derived from sources other than tobacco, may be lawfully supplied to consumers under the age of 21.



 

What are the alternatives to Nicotine Pouches?


The primary reason that people smoke is their nicotine addiction. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is a medication that provides a low level of nicotine without the harmful tar, carbon monoxide, and other toxic chemicals in tobacco smoke. It can help decrease unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, such as cravings and bad moods, that may occur when quitting smoking. NRT is available for purchase at pharmacies and some retail stores, and it can also be obtained through a prescription from a doctor or an NHS stop-smoking service.


Below is a list of options you could consider when looking to stop smoking:


Nicotine Skin Patches


Nicotine patches are a form of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) applied directly to the skin. They are typically used once a day and come in different strengths and duration. It's essential to follow the instructions on the label and ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification if needed. Follow the prescribed amount and frequency of use.


To use the patch:

1. Choose a clean, dry, and hairless area of skin on the upper chest, upper arm, or hip as directed by the package.

2. Avoid irritated, oily, scarred, or broken skin areas.

3. Carefully remove the patch from the packaging, peel off the protective strip, and apply it to the skin, pressing it firmly in place for about 10 seconds.

4. Ensure the patch is securely in place, especially around the edges, and wash your hands with water after applying the patch. If the patch falls off or becomes loose, replace it with a new one.

The patch should be worn continuously for 16 to 24 hours per package instructions. It can be worn even while showering or bathing.


Carefully remove the patch and fold it half with the sticky side pressed together. Dispose of it safely and out of reach of children and pets. After removing the used patch, apply the following patch to a different area of the skin to avoid irritation. Do not wear two patches at once. After two weeks of use, a switch to a lower-strength patch may be considered, and a gradual reduction in strength is recommended to minimise withdrawal symptoms. Per the package instructions, nicotine patches can be used for 6 to 20 weeks.


Nicotine Gum


Nicotine gum is a form of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) available in two strengths, 2 mg and 4 mg. The appropriate strength for you is determined by the time you usually have your first cigarette of the day and the amount you are currently smoking. If you have your first cigarette within 30 minutes of waking, starting with the 4 mg strength is recommended. As time goes by, typically between 8 and 12 weeks, you can decrease the strength and frequency of use until you stop using the gum altogether. Using one piece of gum every 1-2 hours during the first six weeks of quitting is recommended. Try to anticipate when you may crave a cigarette and use a piece of gum before the craving occurs.


To ensure your body gets enough nicotine to ease withdrawal symptoms, it's best to use at least nine pieces of gum daily during the first six weeks. To use the gum correctly:

1. Start by biting down on it slowly until you feel a tingling sensation in your mouth.

2. Place the gum between your cheek and gums and hold it there for about a minute, absorbing the nicotine into your body.

3. Repeat this "chew" and "park" process until the tingling sensation stops, usually around 30 minutes.

Changing the location in your mouth where you "park" the gum occasionally is also recommended.


Nicotine Inhalers


Inhalers, which resemble plastic cigarettes, require a prescription from a healthcare provider. The oral nicotine inhaler may appear similar to a cigarette and should be used differently. You don't have to inhale deeply for the medication to be effective, and it should not be inhaled into the lungs like a traditional cigarette or asthma inhaler. Instead, take frequent, short, and shallow puffs from the inhaler, similar to how you would sip from a straw. The inhaler should be used for four 5-minute sessions or continuously for around 20 minutes, which is approximately how long one cartridge will last.


Nicotine Lozenges


Lozenges come in different sizes and strengths. The appropriate dose depends on when you typically have your first cigarette of the day and your current smoking amount. If you have your first cigarette within 30 minutes of waking, starting with the 4 mg strength is recommended. If you use the lozenge with a nicotine patch, starting with the 2 mg strength is suggested. Over time, usually between 8 to 12 weeks, you can decrease the dose and frequency of use until you stop using the lozenge altogether.


Nicotine Nasal Spray


The nicotine nasal spray requires a prescription from a healthcare provider. To use the nasal spray, first clear your nose by blowing it. Tilt your head back slightly and insert the tip of the bottle into your nostril as comfortably as possible. Breathe through your mouth and spray once in each nostril. Do not sniff, swallow or inhale while spraying. If your nose runs, gently sniff to keep the medication in your nose where it will be absorbed. Wait at least 2-3 minutes before blowing your nose. Replace the cap on the nasal spray and store it out of reach of children and pets. One bottle of the nasal spray typically delivers about 200 sprays.


Nicotine Mouth Spray


A nicotine mouth spray is a convenient and easy way to consume nicotine. To use it, point the nozzle towards your open mouth and hold it as close as possible, avoiding your lips. Press the top of the container to release 1-2 sprays into the side of your mouth. It's important not to inhale while spraying to avoid getting it down your throat. After spraying, wait a few seconds before swallowing. Ask your pharmacist for instructions if you need help using the spray. The recommended usage is up to 4 sprays per hour and not more than 64 sprays daily.

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