Nicotine Pouches

Nicotine pouches are a relatively new way to get a nicotine fix without the smoke and mess associated with cigarettes, vapes, classic snus, or chewing tobacco. The absence of tobacco in the products, which also don’t require high temperatures for consumption, makes nic pouches a safer alternative for nicotine users.

Since nicopods are fresh to the market, many consumers have questions about their ingredients, cost, and best places to buy them. This detailed guide to nicotine pouches gives you all the information you need to determine if they are a good fit for you.

Below are our current bestsellers:

What Exactly Are Nic Pouches?

Nicopods are small, discreet pouches that contain nicotine and additional flavoring. They are similar in size and shape to snus (a smokeless tobacco product), but instead of tobacco, they contain synthetic nicotine or tobacco-derived nicotine salts. 

Nic pouches are available in various strengths to cater to different nicotine preferences. Low-strength options are suitable for occasional users, while high-strength options are meant for those with a high nicotine tolerance. Depending primarily on how much nicotine is in them, nicopods come in three sizes:

1. Mini—The smallest size that typically contains the least amount of nicotine. They fit comfortably under the upper lip and are discreet and convenient 
2. Slim—A slightly larger pouch that usually (not necessarily) has a higher nicotine content. They’re also pretty comfortable and discreet
3. Large—The largest size, designed to deliver a lot of nicotine. They give the strongest kick but are not as comfortable as other formats

How Popular Are Nicotine Pouches?

Nicopods are quickly gaining traction among nicotine users looking for a safer alternative to traditional tobacco products. From 2016 to 2020, their sales increased by 305% in the U.S., and the market is expected to reach $33 billion by 2026.

The convenience, discretion, health-risk reduction, and flavor variety make nicotine pouches an attractive option to seasoned nicotine fans and those looking for safer alternatives to smoking or vaping.

How Nicotine Pouches Deliver Nicotine

You’re supposed to place nicopods between your upper lip and gum, where your mucous membrane absorbs nicotine and gradually delivers it to your bloodstream. 

When nicotine reaches your brain and binds to nicotine receptors, it triggers the release of dopamine (the “feel-good” hormone) and stimulates pleasure centers. You will experience increased alertness, improved mood, and a sense of relaxation.

For this effect to kick in, you should leave the pouch in your mouth for 5–30 minutes, depending on your nicotine tolerance and product strength. You may feel a slight burning sensation at first—a sign that the pouch is working—but it should subside within a few minutes. The effects of a nicotine pouch typically last for about an hour.

Ingredients in Nicotine Pouches

Source: Afif Ramdhasuma

Nicopods are made from pure, pharmaceutical-grade nicotine and specific food-grade ingredients. The optimal pH levels of nicotine salts in nicotine pouches make them less harsh on the throat. 

The exact blend and ratio of other ingredients in nicopods may vary by brand, but almost all manufacturers use the following:

• Fillers—Provide bulk to the pouches and help regulate the release of nicotine
• Flavorings—Add taste and aroma to the pouch, providing a pleasant experience
• Sweeteners—Enhance flavor and add sweetness to the pouches
• pH adjusters—Ensure optimal pH levels for a smoother and more enjoyable experience
• Stabilizers—Maintain consistency, texture, and moisture in the pouches

These ingredients are safe to consume, so you don’t have to spit while using nic pouches. Still, you should avoid swallowing the pouches to prevent the potential side effects of ingesting too much nicotine.

Recommended Usage and Potential Side Effects

For a pleasant experience with nicotine pouches, it’s crucial to use them as recommended. If you are new to nicotine products or have a lower tolerance for nicotine, start with mild products. As your body gets used to the effects, you can gradually work your way up to more potent nicopods.

Follow these tips to use nicotine pouches the right way: 

1. Take one pouch at a time—Consuming multiple pouches at once increases the risk of overdosing. Wait for 1–2 hours after removing the pouch to use a new one
2. Rotate the pouch position—To avoid gum irritation and discomfort, switch the location of your nicopod every time you use it
3. Avoid swallowing the pouches—Swallowing a pouch can cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness due to excessive nicotine consumption. If you accidentally swallow a pouch, seek medical attention if any concerning symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) appear
4. Drink water—To prevent dry mouth and throat, stay hydrated while using nicotine pouches

Nicopod side effects can vary among users but are typically mild and temporary. Some common unwanted reactions include:

• Nausea
• Hiccups
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness

If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. Keep in mind that nicotine is a highly addictive substance and can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop using it. In case you haven’t used nicopods before, it’s best to avoid them altogether.

Source: Usman Yousaf 

Who Should Avoid Nicopods?

Nicotine pouches may not be suitable for everyone, and specific groups of people should avoid using them altogether. The table below shows categories of people who should refrain from using nicopods and the reasons why:

Category	Reason for Avoidance
Persons under 21 years of age	Nicotine can have negative effects on adolescent brain development. It can harm brain pathways responsible for mood regulation, attention, learning, and memory
Pregnant and nursing women	Using nicotine during pregnancy can cause harm to the fetus (e.g., low birth weight, preterm delivery, and stillbirth). Nicotine can also pass on to breastmilk, potentially affecting the baby’s development and health
People with heart problems	Nicotine can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and adrenaline levels. These effects can pose a risk for people with pre-existing heart conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and arrhythmia
Individuals with specific medical conditions	If you have underlying medical conditions related to the throat, mouth, stomach, or liver, consult a doctor before using nicopods. Nicotine can interact with certain diseases and medications and cause harmful effects
People allergic to any of the ingredients in the product	If you experience an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, hives, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing) when using nicopods, discontinue use and seek medical attention. Always check the ingredients list before trying a new brand or product

Nic Pouches and Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Keep in mind that nicopods are not a smoking cessation aid. While they can help you cut back on your nicotine intake, they aren’t intended to help you quit nicotine altogether. The FDA recommends the following nicotine replacement therapies for quitting smoking:

• Nicotine gum
• Nicotine lozenges
• Nicotine patches
• Nicotine nasal spray
• Nicotine inhalers

If you’re looking to quit nicotine entirely, consult a healthcare professional for guidance and support. You can also visit the BeTobaccoFree website for resources and information on quitting smoking.

How Nicopods Compare to Other Nicotine Delivery Methods

There are many different ways to consume nicotine—smoking, vaping, dipping, chewing tobacco, etc. Here’s what sets nicopods apart from traditional tobacco products:

• No tobacco—Nicopods don’t contain tobacco leaves, stems, or dust, which makes them tobacco-free. Although the nicotine in pouches can come from tobacco plants, it is purified to pharmaceutical-grade standards
• No combustion—Unlike smoking and vaping, nicopod use doesn’t involve combustion or high temperatures during consumption, which produce toxins and harmful carcinogenic chemicals. No smoke also means no lingering odors on your clothes, breath, or hair
• Nicotine content—Nicotine levels in nicopods can range from 1.5 mg to 50 mg per pouch, whereas cigarettes typically contain 10–12 mg of nicotine. While smoking, you only inhale 1.1 to 1.8 mg of nicotine per cigarette—with nicopods, you absorb around 30% of the nicotine content
• Convenience—Nicotine pouches are discreet, clean, and convenient. You can pop one anywhere, anytime, without the need for ashtrays, lighters, or chargers
• No spitting—A common issue with dipping and chewing tobacco is that you must spit out excess saliva and juices. With nicopods, there’s no need for that. They deliver a clean and drip-free experience. You can also swallow the spit in small amounts without experiencing side effects

Source: Irina Iriser

How Much Do Nicotine Pouches Cost?

Nicotine pouches can vary in price depending on the brand, strength, and quantity you order. On average, a single can of 20 pouches can cost from $3.50 to $7, so they’re more affordable than a pack of cigarettes, which in the U.S. costs $8.39 on average. Compared to vaping, the cost difference gets even more significant due to the initial investment in a vaping device and ongoing costs for e-juice, as shown in the following table:

Vape Equipment	Price
Vape pens	$25–$200
Vaping liquid or “juice”	$5–$25 per bottle
Cleaning and maintenance tools	$10–$50 per year
Replacement coils	$2–$5 for each coil (replaced once a week)

Depending on your habits and preferences, you may find nicotine pouches a more affordable alternative to smoking or vaping. Plus, most brands and vendors offer regular promotions and discounts for bulk purchases and subscription plans. Keep an eye out for these deals, and always purchase from a reputable source to ensure the nicotine pouches you use are of premium quality. 

Can You Buy Nicotine Pouches Online?

Yes, you can buy nicotine pouches online from various retailers and brand websites. In fact, as far as flavored nicotine pouches go, this is the only way to buy them in the U.S. because many states have banned in-person sales of any type of flavored tobacco and nicotine products.

Since the FDA disincentivized the development of nicopod recipes, customers have turned to EU-crafted pouches, as the European Union has progressive laws on oral nicotine products. EU-made pouches offer higher moisture content, versatile flavors, and a more intense kick for a superior nicotine experience.

Before you make an order, it’s crucial to confirm you’re buying from a trusted source to ensure the authenticity and safety of the products. Look for reviews and ratings from other customers, read up on the brand’s reputation, and check for secure payment options before buying anything.

Source: Christin Hume

Where Can You Buy Nicotine Pouches Online in the U.S.?

SnusBoss is a leading online retailer of EU-made nicotine pouches in the U.S. Run by a team of industry experts with years of experience under their belt, SnusBoss offers a wide selection of top-quality nicotine pouches from popular brands and niche manufacturers. 

You can choose from a variety of flavors and strengths and take advantage of SnusBoss’ competitive prices and regular promotions to save on your favorite products. Get fresh, premium-quality nicopods at SnusBoss from brands like:

1. ZYN
2. Velo
3. White Fox
4. Killa
5. Roger
6. Paz
7. Thor
8. Kozmo
9. Kurwa
10. Hit
11. Chapo
12. GOAT
13. Jäger
14. Oryx
15. Dope
16. Pablo
17. Klint
18. Snatch
19. Thunder
20. Skruf
21. Kick
22. Siberia
23. Pik
24. Denssi
25. Glitch

Ordering from SnusBoss is easy, secure, and hassle-free:

1. Visit the online store
2. Browse and choose your desired nicotine pouches
3. Enter your shipping and payment information

You can opt for express shipping to have your products delivered to your doorstep within 2–3 days. Free shipping is available for bulk orders above $249.

Can Nicotine Pouches Lose Their Freshness?

Nicotine pouches have a predetermined shelf life and can lose their freshness over time. Typically, this happens if they are exposed to air, heat, or light for extended periods. 

For a pleasant experience, it’s generally best to consume your nicopods within one year of purchase. There is no harm in consuming nicopods past their expiration date, but the flavor and potency may diminish. 

To keep your pouches flavorful and potent, follow these storage tips:

1. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to avoid degradation of flavor and moisture
2. Avoid storing them in the freezer as this can affect the texture and flavor of the pouches
3. Keep your pouches in their original packaging to prevent exposure to air

If you notice any changes in the color, texture, or smell of your pouches, it’s best to discard them and get a fresh batch. You should also keep nicopods away from children and pets as they may mistake them for candy or treats. Accidental ingestion of nicotine can be dangerous for children and pets, so seek medical attention immediately if this occurs.

Source: SnusBoss

Nic Pouches FAQ

Check out the answers to frequently asked questions about nicotine pouches that can help address any doubts or uncertainties you may have.

Do Nicotine Pouches Cause Cancer?

There is no conclusive evidence showing a direct link between nicotine pouches and cancer. Nicopods don’t contain tobacco, the primary carcinogen in traditional tobacco products. 

What Effect Do Nicopods Have on Oral Health?

When used as directed, nicotine pouches don’t pose a significant risk to oral health. You may experience minor irritation or soreness in your gums, but this is usually temporary and subsides with continued use. 

Overconsumption may lead to gum irritation and recession, so use nicotine pouches in moderation. Maintain proper oral hygiene—including brushing and flossing regularly—to keep your mouth healthy. Also, drink plenty of water to avoid dry mouth, a common side effect of using nicotine pouches.

How Many Pouches Can You Use in a Day?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as it varies depending on individual preferences and tolerance levels. Average users typically go through a can of nicopods in two to three days. It’s advisable to allow a 1–2 hour gap between pouches to avoid overconsumption and potential side effects. If the pouch doesn’t give you a strong enough kick, don’t go for a new one immediately but switch to a stronger product. Everyone’s body reacts differently to nicotine, so listen to your body and consume accordingly.

Featured image source: Swenico