Illegal nicotine pouches are sweeping the nation, adding yet another form of nicotine paraphernalia to the ongoing vaping epidemic in Australia.
Nicotine pouches, not to be confused with ‘snus‘, have grown in popularity over the past several months as an easier way for individuals to consume nicotine.
This sudden increase in popularity has been heavily influenced by social media, with viral videos on TikTok and Instagram of people “popping an upper decky”.
These pouches are often marketed and promoted as a safer alternative to cigarettes and vaping since the nicotine is consumed through a pouch placed in the upper lip, rather than smoke inhalation through the lungs.
Contrary to what the marketing suggests, it does have other health detriments. Oral cancer, gum disease, and nicotine addiction are just some of these concerns.
Similarly to vapes, the importation and sale of this product is federally illegal. Despite this, the pouches are easily accessible at local tobacconists for a relatively cheap price.
The important difference between nicotine pouches and ‘snus‘ is nicotine pouches are tobacco-free, and snus contains either a natural or synthetic tobacco leaf.
University of Wollongong senior lecturer of chemistry and molecular bioscience Dr Jody Moller said the new product is proving difficult for authorities to assess.
“Largely, it’s because of unfamiliarity. They (NSW Police) don’t know what these products are. They’re sitting in this grey zone where there is no official regulation linked directly to those products,” Dr Moller said.
Dr Jody Moller, UOW Chemistry Lecturer and Toxicologist
“These pouches are sitting in a grey area. Legally they’re not allowed to be sold because they contain nicotine. Similarly to vapes, what will happen is companies will remove the word nicotine from the packaging.
– Dr Jody Moller
With the Australian government committed to a ban on all e-cigarette products in the country, nicotine pouches have risen as a discreet, trendy, yet potentially dangerous alternative.
A study from the Preventive Medicine Reports found in 16% of youth or young adults in the US have used a nicotine pouch at least once.
“Companies want to make as much money as they can by hitting particularly young markets. We’ve also seen a big uptick not just among teenagers but also people in their early 20s. Young people seem to be utilising the stimulant effects of the nicotine in places like the gym,” Dr Moller said.