Zyn nicotine pouches get FDA approval | FOX 2 Detroit
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Zyn nicotine pouches get FDA approval

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Published  January 16, 2025 9:16pm EST
Consumer
FOX TV Digital Team

Concern of nicotine among young users

Dr. Peter Chin-Hong with UCSF Health joined LiveNOW's Carel Lajara to discuss the rising level of concern for young people turning to nicotine products.

The Brief

    • FDA approves Zyn nicotine pouches, including 10 flavors, as a safer option for adult smokers.
    • The decision marks the first FDA authorization for nicotine pouches, which are tobacco-free.
    • Advocates warn flavored options could appeal to teens, despite low reported youth usage.

For the first time, the FDA has approved nicotine pouches as a less harmful smoking alternative, authorizing Philip Morris International’s Zyn brand. The decision highlights their potential to help adult smokers quit or reduce cigarette use while reigniting concerns about flavored nicotine products appealing to teens.

Zyn pouches, available in flavors like mint, coffee, and menthol, aim to provide adult smokers with a safer option. The authorization is part of an effort to expand alternatives to traditional tobacco products.

What are Zyn nicotine pouches?

The backstory:

Zyn pouches are tobacco-free nicotine products that release nicotine through the gums, similar to lozenges. Unlike cigarettes and chewing tobacco, Zyn doesn’t contain harmful substances linked to cancer or other diseases, according to the FDA.

FDA data showed a significant number of adult smokers switched entirely to Zyn. This decision follows years of evaluation to determine its benefits over traditional tobacco products.

How does Zyn compare to other smoking alternatives?

Big picture view:

Zyn joins FDA-authorized products like e-cigarettes and snus. However, Zyn stands out for being tobacco-free, which the FDA sees as a health advantage.

As smoking rates decline, tobacco companies are pivoting to alternatives like nicotine pouches. While e-cigarettes faced scrutiny over youth usage, less than 2% of U.S. high school and middle school students reportedly use nicotine pouches, according to federal data.

In this photo illustration, ZYN nicotine cases and pouches are seen on a table on January 29, 2024 in New York City.  (Photo Illustration by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

Why are some advocates concerned?

The other side:

Critics are wary of flavored nicotine pouches, fearing they could attract young users. Yolonda Richardson from the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids argued, "The FDA should not be authorizing flavored tobacco products given their history of appealing to kids."

Social media trends showing young people using nicotine pouches have fueled concerns. Lawmakers like Sen. Chuck Schumer have urged further scrutiny to ensure youth appeal remains limited.

What’s next for nicotine pouches?

What's next:

Zyn will remain on the market as long as it demonstrates public health benefits without increasing youth usage. The FDA will monitor trends and could impose restrictions if needed.

Philip Morris, marketing Zyn through its Swedish Match unit, has emphasized its focus on adult smokers, stating it doesn’t use influencers or endorsements to promote the product.

The Source

This story is based on reporting from the Associated Press, statements from the FDA, and insights from public health advocates.

ConsumerNews