In Australia, nicotine pouches are illegal to advertise and sell, yet they remain accessible to young Australians, indicating a rising popularity amongst this demographic. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) recently confiscated over 7,000 nicotine pouches, vapes, and related products from locations in Penrith, New South Wales—a clear sign of their demand.
These nicotine pouches, which are smokeless and free from tobacco, are often marketed as a “cleaner” alternative to traditional smoking or vaping. Their vibrant packaging and various flavours make them particularly appealing to younger consumers, with data revealing that one in five young adult smokers has tried them.
Nicotine pouches consist of small sachets filled with a mixture of chemicals, primarily nicotine, which are placed between the lip and gum to absorb nicotine into the bloodstream. Although they are not classified as containing tobacco, many pouches use synthetic nicotine that may contain unregulated and harmful substances. Users are advised not to chew or swallow the pouches, which should be disposed of after approximately 30 minutes.
Despite their illegal status in Australia due to health regulations, some stores and online retailers continue to sell these products. They are classified as therapeutic goods, which require registration to be legally offered for sale. While individuals with prescriptions can import pouches legally under the Personal Importation Scheme, the absence of regulation raises serious safety concerns. The concentrations of nicotine in these pouches can vary considerably, posing a risk of overdose if consumed excessively.
Side effects are associated with nicotine pouch use, including mouth lesions, increased heart rate, nausea, and potential impacts on brain development for young users. Long-term effects are still being studied, but concerns persist about mouth health deterioration and withdrawal symptoms for those who quit.
While some argue that nicotine pouches may be a safer alternative to vaping, research is insufficient to substantiate this claim. Moreover, while pouches might be prescribed to aid smoking cessation, there is no strong evidence supporting their efficacy compared to approved nicotine replacement therapies like gums and patches, which have undergone rigorous testing in Australia.
In summary, the rise in popularity of nicotine pouches among Australian youth highlights the need for increased awareness and regulations regarding their risks and legal status.