Why Are Nicotine Pouches Popular Among Youth?
In our recent school presentations, we’ve noticed a shift—fewer students are vaping (which is a win!), but there’s a new player in town: nicotine pouches and youth usage is rising. School staff report that these small, discreet pouches are becoming more common. Why? Because they are easy to hide, quick to dispose of, and more affordable than e-cigarettes—an appealing trio for teens.
Because of this rising trend, we’re adding nicotine pouch education into our upcoming trainings. We want to ensure that students, teachers, and parents stay informed about the risks and realities of these products.
“Nicotine pouches may seem harmless, but their discreet nature and accessibility make them a rising concern for youth” ~ Ray Lozano
Nicotine Pouches and Youth: What Are They?
Nicotine pouches are smokeless, tobacco-free products that contain nicotine derived from tobacco or synthesized in labs. They come in flavors like mint, citrus, and coffee and are marketed as a “clean” alternative to traditional tobacco products. Popular brands like Zyn nicotine pouches have gained traction, offering different strengths and flavors.
But just because they’re smokeless doesn’t mean they’re harmless.
Why Are Nicotine Pouches Popular Among Youth?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1.8% of middle and high school students reported using nicotine pouches in 2024, an increase from 1.5% in 2023. While this percentage may seem small, it represents a growing trend.
Teens are drawn to these pouches because they are:
✔ Discreet – No smoke, no vapor, no lingering smell.
✔ Easy to Use – Slip under the lip, no need for a lighter or charger.
✔ Marketed as Safer – With no combustion, they seem less harmful than cigarettes or vapes.
Unfortunately, these factors make them particularly appealing to young users, many of whom are unaware of the potential health risks.
Health Implications of Nicotine Pouches
While nicotine pouches eliminate the risks associated with inhaling smoke or vapor, they are far from risk-free.
- Nicotine is highly addictive – It can impact developing brains, affecting learning, memory, and attention.
- Long-term health effects are unknown – Since these products are relatively new, research is still catching up.
Additionally, flavored pouches make it easier for youth to underestimate the risks, leading to increased use and potential addiction.
What Parents and Educators Need to Know
If you’re a parent, teacher, or mentor, here’s how you can help:
✅ Stay Informed – Learn about nicotine pouches and their risks.
✅ Talk to Teens – Have open, judgment-free conversations about their use.
✅ Recognize the Signs – Watch for pouches in backpacks, unusual packaging, or changes in behavior.
For more details, visit the CDC’s resources on youth and tobacco use: CDC – Youth and Tobacco
Final Thoughts: Are Nicotine Pouches Safe for Youth?
While nicotine pouches are marketed as a “safer” alternative to smoking and vaping, they still pose risks, especially for teens. Their discreet nature and accessibility make them an emerging concern for educators and parents.
Staying informed and having proactive conversations can make a difference. Let’s work together to ensure young people understand the full picture before making choices that impact their health.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Notes from the Field: E-Cigarette and Nicotine Pouch Use Among Middle and High School Students — United States, 2024.” CDC MMWR.
- Yale Medicine. “What Parents Should Know About Nicotine Pouches.” Yale Medicine.
Read another blog about supposed “nicotine-free” vapes HERE: https://raylozano.com/not-so-nicotine-free-after-all/
