A small product from Philip Morris called Zyn is gaining attention in the tobacco industry, sparking a debate over whether new nicotine-based alternatives aimed at adults are being used by underage teens. Zyn is an oral pouch containing nicotine powder and flavors like mint, coffee, and citrus, marketed to adult tobacco users by Philip Morris International. Although it does not contain tobacco, it is treated as a tobacco product by U.S. regulators. Competitors like Altria also sell similar flavored pouches.
Users of nicotine pouches like Zyn place them between their lip and gums, where they release low levels of nicotine into the bloodstream. Unlike traditional chewing tobacco products, there is no spitting involved with pouches. Philip Morris representatives tout the nicotine-only formulation as a key appeal of Zyn, as it differentiates the product from traditional tobacco products, making it more acceptable to consumers.
While all tobacco products pose serious health risks, there is growing recognition of varying levels of harm among different products. Cigarettes are widely known to be the most harmful, while products like snus, an oral tobacco product similar to pouches like Zyn, have been shown to contain lower levels of cancer-causing chemicals than cigarettes. Research on the long-term effects of nicotine pouches is limited, but many experts believe they may have lower rates of carcinogens and toxic components.
The FDA is currently reviewing Philip Morris’ application to market Zyn for adult smokers and reduce disease without attracting underage use. Despite concerns about young people using Zyn, federal data shows that only 1.5% of high school and middle school students reported using nicotine pouches, compared to approximately 10% who used e-cigarettes. However, anti-tobacco advocates are worried about viral videos of young people using pouches, similar to the rise of Juul among teens.
While some researchers suggest that products like Zyn could help smokers quit by delivering nicotine and reducing cravings, early studies indicate that they may not be as effective as traditional quitting aids. Ohio State University researchers found that it took smokers longer to achieve the same nicotine levels with Zyn as with cigarettes, potentially impacting their ability to relieve cravings. Philip Morris is focused on obtaining FDA authorization to remain on the market and may seek a reduced-risk designation in the future.
The debate over the use of nicotine pouches like Zyn among underage teens continues to provoke discussion among health experts, parents, and politicians. The FDA is monitoring the use of these products among young people and will take action if necessary. While the long-term effects of nicotine pouches are still being studied, it is important to recognize the potential risks and benefits of these alternative tobacco products.
