A recent study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research reveals that the use of nicotine pouches among adults and teenagers in the UK is steadily increasing. Conducted by Leonie Brose of King’s College London in collaboration with Laura Bunce and Hazel Cheeseman from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), the study highlights a significant rise in nicotine pouch usage over the past four years, despite it remaining less popular than e-cigarettes.

Key Findings from the Study

1. Growing Popularity Among Adults and Teens

• Adults: In 2024, 5.4% of adults reported having used nicotine pouches, up from 2.7% in 2020. Currently, 1% of adults are active users.
• Teenagers (11-18 years): 3.3% reported having tried nicotine pouches, with 1.2% currently using them.

2. Demographic Trends

• Young adults (18-34 years), men, and residents of London showed significantly higher usage rates.
• Most nicotine pouch users had prior experience with other nicotine products, particularly cigarettes and e-cigarettes.

3. Correlation with Other Behaviors

• Long-term nicotine pouch use was closely linked to gambling, alcohol consumption, cannabis use, and mental health conditions.
• Among teenagers, those who used cigarettes or e-cigarettes, or had family members who used nicotine products, were more likely to try nicotine pouches.

Regulatory Gaps and Concerns

Unlike traditional tobacco or e-cigarette products, nicotine pouches are not currently regulated under the UK’s existing framework. The study’s authors warn that the lack of age restrictions or marketing regulations could lead to increased usage among non-nicotine users, particularly young people.

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently under review in the UK Parliament, proposes stricter regulations for novel nicotine products, including age restrictions on the sale of nicotine pouches.

The study states: “The findings provide further evidence for the rationale behind regulation. Higher usage rates among young people and vulnerable groups offer additional justification for taking action to regulate these products.”

The Need for Regulation

Researchers emphasize that regulation is crucial to ensure nicotine pouches do not become a gateway product for teenagers. They write: “While nicotine pouches as an alternative to smoking will reduce the public health harms of cigarette use, a properly regulated market will also benefit public health by preventing uptake among those who would not otherwise use nicotine, particularly young people.”

Implications for the Nicotine Pouch Industry

The rising trend in nicotine pouch usage presents both opportunities and challenges for the industry:

1. Market Growth

As awareness and acceptance of nicotine pouches grow, manufacturers and wholesalers can expect increased demand, particularly among adults seeking alternatives to smoking.

2. Regulatory Compliance

With stricter regulations on the horizon, companies must ensure compliance with age restrictions, marketing guidelines, and product safety standards.

3. Public Health Considerations

The industry must balance commercial interests with public health goals, ensuring that nicotine pouches are marketed responsibly and do not appeal to non-users or minors.

4. Consumer Education

Educating consumers about the proper use of nicotine pouches and their role in harm reduction will be essential to building trust and credibility.

Conclusion

The study underscores the growing popularity of nicotine pouches in the UK and highlights the urgent need for regulation to prevent misuse, particularly among young people. As the Tobacco and Vapes Bill progresses, the industry must adapt to a changing regulatory landscape while continuing to provide safer alternatives for adult smokers.

By addressing these challenges, the nicotine pouch industry can play a positive role in reducing the harms associated with traditional tobacco use while safeguarding public health.

Meta Description: A new study reveals rising nicotine pouch usage in the UK, with 5.4% of adults and 3.3% of teens reporting use. Learn about the implications for regulation and public health.

Keywords: Nicotine pouches, UK nicotine trends, Tobacco and Vapes Bill, harm reduction, nicotine regulation, youth vaping, public health, nicotine pouch market, disposable e-cigarettes.