Nicotine Pouch Guide
Thinking of trying nicotine pouches or looking to find out more about what they are? Our handy user guide has everything you need to know!
A nicotine pouch is a small white pouch that is placed into the mouth. The pouch slowly releases nicotine which is then absorbed into the body, primarily through your gums.
Nic pouches are both smoke and vapour free, making them a discreet way of ingesting nicotine, similar to gum or patches. Nicotine pouches can be used anywhere, including places where vaping isn't permitted such as aeroplanes, restaurants and sports stadiums. Just like vaping, pouches are completely tobacco-free.
How do I use a nicotine pouch?
- Remove a single pouch from the tub.
- Put the pouch underneath your top lip, so it rests between your gum and lip.
- Keep the pouch in place for between 5 and 60 minutes. At first, you may feel a tingling sensation.
- Remove the pouch when you feel that you've had enough, or once 60 minutes has elapsed.
- Dispose of the pouch in your household waste bin
Tip: most nicotine pouch tubs have a sealed compartment for storing used pouches for when there isn't a bin nearby!
What's in a nicotine pouch?
Nicotine pouch ingredients vary depending on the brand you choose, however, the following ingredients are present in all nicotine pouches:
Nicotine: typically nicotine salt, which emulates the nicotine found naturally in tobacco leaves.
Fillers: used to bulk out the pouch. Typically plant-based materials that are also found in chewing gum.
Sweeteners/flavourings: food-grade additives that add flavour to your pouch. Sometimes a sugar substitute will be used.
PH Adjusters: minerals that maintain neutral PH levels. Typically sodium-based (either carbonate or bicarbonate).
Choosing the right nicotine pouch strength
Selecting an appropriate pouch strength can help avoid unpleasant side effects. The way nicotine is absorbed when using a pouch - through the gums, primarily - can result in a stronger buzz, even for those who are accustomed to nicotine.
Tip: Nicotine pouches deliver nicotine to your system in a different way to vaping and smoking. This means it's not always best to opt for the same nicotine strength you've used in your vape, for example, as the delivery will likely feel different.
With that said, here are a few pointers to help you select the right pouch:
- When in doubt, start low: when trying nicotine pouches for the first time, we recommend opting for a 'medium' strength or lower (12mg or less). Once you are familiar with the process and sensation, move up to higher strength if you feel the need to.
- Take into account your needs and limits: consider your previous habits (smoking or vaping) and your personal biology. A number of variables, including weight, age, tiredness and hunger all alter the affect nicotine has on our bodies. Only opt for high-strength pouches if you're sure it's necessary and won't have adverse effects.
- Research and enquire: online resources, including reviews and forum posts, can be a great way of learning about others users' experiences. If you're considering purchasing nicotine pouches from The Electric Tobacconist, feel free to reach out to our customer service team for some personalised advice!
Fortunately, nicotine pouches are relatively inexpensive, meaning it's easy to try a few different strengths and find what works for you without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I position my nicotine pouch?
Most users will position their pouch underneath their top lip, on either the right or left side. You can alternate between the two if one side begins to feel uncomfortable. A small number of people choose to place the pouch underneath their bottom lip, although this is less common and can be awkward when it comes to speech!
Where should I store my nicotine pouches?
Your nicotine pouch tub is designed to be taken out and about. Some users choose to keep their tub in the fridge before they first open it; this can help to keep the pouches fresh if you're not planning on using them for a prolonged amount of time. Once the tub has been opened for the first time, there's no need to refrigerate them.
Can I chew on the pouch?
No - the pouches should never be chewed or swallowed. Some users roll their jaw a little to 'squeeze' the pouch -this can rearrange the contents of the pouch to help with the release of nicotine and flavour. This should always be done carefully and generally won't be necessary.
Are pouches any different to gum or patches?
Nicotine pouches are similar to both gum and patches, in that they are easy to use discreetly. One of the main advantages of using a pouch instead of a patch is that intake can be managed more easily; if you feel you've had enough, you can simply take the pouch out. Patches tend to be placed under clothing, so are harder to remove while out and about. Pouches are closer to gum in terms of consumption, with the main difference being that no chewing is required and they last a little longer.
Do nicotine pouches have side effects?
Any source of nicotine can induce minor side effects. This tends to happen if you ingest too much, or opt for a strength that is too high for your needs. In this event, you may experience hiccups, a slightly sore mouth or a nauseous feeling. To avoid any side effects, regulate your intake and always opt for a lower strength if you're unsure.
Do nicotine pouches contain tobacco?
No, nicotine pouches like Zyn do not contain tobacco. You can tell a pouch is tobacco-free if it's labelled 'white', or if the pouches themselves are light in colour.