What Users See As The Future Of Nicotine Pouches

Nathan Chilcott

Customer Stories

There is little doubt that nicotine pouches have gained a lot of popularity in the last few years.

This can be seen in the value of the nicotine pouch industry, which was USD 6.6 billion in 2023 and is growing at approximately 17.5% every year.

Alongside this, the increase in popularity has brought out the usual conflict. In this case, it’s between those acknowledging that nicotine pouches are a worthwhile part of any tobacco harm reduction strategy and those who see it as an addiction risk.

"Whichever side of the argument you fall on, you can’t dispute that there is an abundance of pouches on offer. Quite literally something for everyone.”

Looking To The Future

At first glance it would seem likely that the nicotine pouch future is rosy. However, there are several things that could affect future sales.

The most obvious is increased legislation to control access to nicotine pouches. Several countries have already limited the flavours which can be sold, and that even includes seasonal nicotine pouch specials.

A few countries have already banned the pouches over concerns of addiction.

There have also been concerns over the labelling ‘tobacco-free’. It’s accurate, but some people worry that this suggests there is little risk associated with them, encouraging young adults to buy them.

Nicotine pouch users tend to watch the industry updates carefully and they feel the following is likely to happen:

Labelling Changes

In the first instance, there will be changes to what is allowed and must be put on the label. Governments are likely to insist a health warning is on the packet. They are also likely to want more research into long-term health implications.

Additional Taxation

To regulate usage and help prevent underage selling, governments are likely to increase the tax on nicotine pouch sales. This will dissuade some people from starting, potentially protecting them from an addictive habit.

Flavours

Right now there are some great deals on flavoured nicotine pouches.

Users believe that this will change in the future. The industry will continue to produce new and enticing flavours. However, regulations will become stricter, with more countries blocking the sale of flavoured pouches.

It won’t reduce usage, but it will make it harder for manufacturers to stand out and secure a market share.

Smart Pouches

We already live in a digital age and the internet of things allows virtually every part of our lives to be connected. This is likely to apply to nicotine pouches.

Linking to a mobile app will allow you to accurately track usage and even nicotine absorption rates. The tech can be used to help ensure you control your nicotine intake.

Alongside this, the smart sensors can even adjust your pouch flavour. It will be both unique and fantastic.

Summing Up

Increased regulation should help to ensure you get a quality nicotine pouch every time. That’s only possible if pouches remain a legal option.

What is certain is that people aren’t about to give up their pouches. Making them illegal will simply mean more black market activity.

Of course, as they continue to increase in popularity, it will be important to be more sustainable and to prove that they are not a major health risk.

Only time will tell how successful nicotine pouches become. But users and the industry are confident there is a place for them in the future.