The FDA has authorized Zyn nicotine pouches, citing their potential to help adult smokers reduce or quit cigarette use.
They approved ten different flavors, like coffee and mint. This is a big deal because it’s the first time the FDA has allowed sales of a nicotine pouch. These pouches are becoming super popular in the U.S. tobacco market.
Zyn has been around for over ten years while the FDA looked into whether it could be a safer alternative to cigarettes. Just to be clear, this doesn’t mean Zyn is completely safe, but it’s seen as less harmful than traditional tobacco products.
To get the FDA’s approval, companies need to prove their products can help reduce health risks for adult smokers without attracting kids. The FDA noted that Zyn has fewer harmful ingredients than cigarettes and chewing tobacco, which are linked to serious health issues.
They also mentioned that a good number of adults who used to smoke have switched to Zyn. It’s like a step in the right direction for those looking to quit.
The FDA has previously approved other products like e-cigarettes and snus, but Zyn is different because it doesn’t contain any tobacco—just nicotine and flavoring.
Tobacco companies have been trying to find alternatives as cigarette sales drop. E-cigarettes gained popularity but faced criticism due to underage vaping. Now, some worry that nicotine pouches might follow the same path, especially with videos of young people using Zyn going viral.
However, the FDA pointed out that less than 2% of high school and middle school students used nicotine pouches last year, which is a relief.
Supporters say Zyn works similarly to nicotine gum and lozenges, providing low levels of nicotine to help curb cravings. It’s marketed in the U.S. by Swedish Match, a part of Philip Morris, and competes with other brands like Altria’s On pouches.
