Key Highlights
- Nicotine pouch use among teenagers has doubled in four years.
- A ban on the sale of nicotine pouches to under-18s is proposed.
- Nicotine pouches can deliver up to 10 times more nicotine than a cigarette.
- Health concerns include increased heart rate, blood pressure, and risk of mouth cancers.
The Rise in Teenagers’ Use of Nicotine Pouches
Nicotine pouches, often referred to as “snus,” have become a significant concern among parents and health professionals alike. A recent report by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) revealed that 38% of 11- to 17-year-olds knew what a nicotine pouch was in 2024; this figure has now risen to 43%. The use of these products has more than doubled over the past four years, with teenagers being particularly vulnerable.
The Marketing and Appeal of Nicotine Pouches
Nicotine pouches are marketed in bright colors and various flavors such as Candy’s Ice Cream Cherry, Banana Chilli, Candy Floss, and Bubble Gum. These products can be found on store shelves alongside candies, making them appealing to younger consumers. The prices range from £3.95 to £6.99 for single pouches or two for £12, contributing to their widespread availability.
Health Risks Associated with Nicotine Pouches
The health risks associated with nicotine pouches are significant and concerning. These products deliver up to 4–20mg of nicotine in each use, compared to a typical cigarette that delivers roughly 1–2mg. Pouches continuously release nicotine over 30–60 minutes through the mouth lining, resulting in higher but more stable levels of nicotine than cigarettes.
Nicotine can disrupt brain development and increase the risk of anxiety and depression in young people.
Additionally, prolonged use has been linked to an increased risk of mouth cancers due to reduced blood flow to gum tissue. Parents report that their children sleep with pouches wedged in their mouths, causing dental issues and potentially leading to deep gum lesions.
Government Crackdown on Nicotine Pouches
The proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to address these concerns by banning the sale of nicotine pouches to under-18s. The bill will also prohibit sales through vending machines or free giveaways, allowing health professionals to set legal caps on nicotine levels. Fruity flavors that have lured young people into believing they are harmless will be banned, and retailers caught selling products to minors will face fines of £200.
Despite these measures coming “just in time” for younger siblings, many teenagers who are already addicted will continue their use without restriction. The ban is expected to prevent the sale of nicotine pouches to those under 18, providing a significant step towards protecting future generations from this growing addiction.
