Summary
A teenager named Johnpaul began using nicotine pouches to stop vaping, but found himself addicted to the pouches instead. Nicotine pouches, often referred to as "snus," are largely unregulated in the UK and may become more popular among young people after the upcoming ban on disposable vapes.
Key Facts
- Nicotine pouches are small packets placed between the lip and gum, delivering nicotine without smoke.
- These pouches are not well-regulated in the UK, meaning there are few rules about who can buy them.
- Johnpaul used up to 15 pouches a day to replace vaping; he now uses five a day.
- Experts warn that nicotine pouches are addictive and can have harmful side effects.
- Some young people, like Johnpaul and Lee, regret starting to use nicotine pouches due to their addictive nature.
- Reports suggest about 5% of adults and 3% of those under 18 in Great Britain have tried these pouches.
- Sales of nicotine pouches have been rising, with a noted increase of 121% in 2023 for one brand.
- There is a fear that the ban on disposable vapes in the UK will lead more teenagers to start using nicotine pouches.
