Where in the world are nicotine pouches allowed?
Nicotine pouches are an increasingly popular alternative to smoking. Although vapes are one of the most effective tools to quit smoking[1], you can’t use them everywhere. One of the main issues is when travelling. You can’t vape on planes, buses, and trains, and it’s illegal in some popular holiday destinations. So can you use nicotine pouches when travelling? Let’s find out!
What are nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches have become increasingly popular in Europe as a form of nicotine replacement therapy. They are readily available in the UK and come in various strengths, making them a suitable choice for those attempting to quit smoking. Additionally, they can be used by vapers in situations where e-cigarettes are not permitted.
The pouches are placed between the gums and cheek. They contain nicotine, plant-based fibres, sweeteners, and flavourings, but no tobacco. As they do not produce any smoke or vapour, they provide users with an excellent way to satisfy their cravings in areas where smoking or vaping is banned.
Can you use nicotine pouches when travelling?
Absolutely! Nicotine pouches are generally acceptable in public and private spaces throughout the UK, such as stores and streets. It is advisable to verify with each airline, but currently, they’re useable on flights and in UK airports. You can use them on trains, subways, and buses as well. The only time you might run into trouble is what to do afterwards, make sure you don’t litter! There’s a small compartment on every pack that you can use to store them if there’s no bin around.
Are nicotine pouches illegal in other countries?
Vaping has various regulations depending on where you go. Various countries have laws that either limit or outright ban it. Nicotine pouches, however, are a completely different product. Let’s take a look at the rules regarding them in different countries.
Europe
Nicotine pouches that are tobacco free don’t have any strict regulations, but different countries have their own policies[2].
The UK treats them as consumer goods and they can be sold pretty much anywhere. Although, they are age restricted because they contain nicotine[3].
In France, nicotine is technically a poisonous substance. But pouches are counted as a medicine for smoking cessation purposes[3].
This year, Belgium announced a total ban on nicotine pouches by royal decree[4].
In Germany, they’re not classed as food or medicine. This means that they’re not legal to sell[5].
North America
In the US, nicotine pouches are regulated by the FDA and subject to age restrictions, a nicotine health warning and a pre market assessment. In fact, 2022 saw 75% of sales recorded by Euromonitor in the US[2].
It’s fine to buy and use nicotine pouches anywhere in the USA.
Australia
Smokeless tobacco products derived from tobacco nicotine are no longer permitted in Australia, while synthetic nicotine pouches are now regulated as a form of medicine. It’s only available to buy if you have a prescription[2].
Canada
Nicotine pouches that are stronger than 4mg are classed as medicine in Canada. This means that they’re available on prescription. If they’re less than 4mg, they’re fine to be sold but are still age restricted[2].
India
In India, a license is needed to make, sell, or distribute any nicotine product. But they’re fine to use and buy[2].
Japan
In Japan, nicotine pouches are freely sold, and no laws or regulations limit their use. You only need a license to sell them[2].
Netherlands
The Netherlands Government are planning to ban them and regulate all other products with nicotine as tobacco products[2]. In May 2024 the Dutch House of Representatives gave the green light on the proposal to ban nicotine pouches completely.
Popular nicotine pouch brands
Nordic Spirit
| Strengths | 3mg, 9mg, 11mg |
| Flavours | 6 Flavours |
VELO
| Strengths | 4mg, 6mg, 8mg, 10mg, 14mg, 17mg |
| Flavours | 10 Flavours |
Elf Bar Tacja Zyn
| Strengths 12mg/ 18mg/ 20mg | |
| Flavours 8 Flavours |
| Strengths 6mg/ 9.5mg/ 11mg/ 12.5mg | |
| Flavours 7 Flavours |
Sources
[1] NHS. (n.d). Vaping to quit smoking.
[2] Tobacco Tactics. (2023). Nicotine Pouches.
[3] Global Tobacco Control. (2023). Nicotine Pouches, Countries/Jurisdictions.
[4] Tobacco Intelligence. (2023). Belgian ban: nicotine and cannabinoid pouch sales to be illegal this year.
[5] Tobacco Intelligence. (2023). BAT pulls Velo out of German market due to uncertainty over legality of pouches.
