Nicotine Pouch Guide

Thinking about trying nicotine pouches for the first time or just curious about how they work? This guide breaks down everything you need to know - from how to use them to choosing the right strength and brand.

What Are Nicotine Pouches?

A nicotine pouch, not to be confused with nicotine strips, is a small, soft pouch designed to deliver nicotine without producing smoke or vapour. You simply place one under your top lip, where it gradually releases nicotine that's absorbed through the gums.

Because they're entirely tobacco-free and produce no smoke, vapour, or odour, nicotine pouches offer a discreet and convenient alternative to smoking or vaping. They can be used almost anywhere - including places where vaping isn't permitted, like planes, restaurants, or sports venues.

How to Use a Nicotine Pouch

  1. Take a single pouch from the tub.
  2. Place it gently under your upper lip, positioning it between your lip and gum.
  3. Leave it there for 5-60 minutes, depending on your preference. It's normal to feel a tingling sensation at first.
  4. Remove the pouch when you've had enough, or after about an hour.
  5. Dispose of it responsibly in a bin.

Tip: Many tubs include a small, sealable section for storing used pouches until you can throw them away.

What's Inside a Nicotine Pouch?

While ingredients can differ slightly between brands, most nicotine pouches contain the following core components:

  • Nicotine: Usually nicotine salt, which mimics the form found naturally in tobacco.
  • Fillers: Plant-based fillers that give the pouch its texture and bulk.
  • Sweeteners & Flavourings: Food-grade flavourings and sweeteners (often sugar-free) to enhance taste.
  • pH Balancers: Ingredients such as sodium carbonate or bicarbonate to maintain a stable pH and support effective nicotine release.

Finding the Right Nicotine Strength

Choosing the correct strength is key to getting the most out of your nicotine pouches without overdoing it. Because nicotine is absorbed differently through the gums, the experience can feel stronger compared to smoking or vaping.

Helpful guidelines:

  • Start low: If you’re new to pouches, begin with a lower or medium strength (around 12mg or less). You can gradually increase if needed.
  • Consider your background: Your past nicotine use - whether from cigarettes or vapes - and factors such as body weight, energy levels, or hunger can all affect how nicotine hits you.
  • Do your research: Check reviews and discussions online to learn what other users think of different strengths and brands. If you’re buying from NicNow, our support team can also offer advice.

Nicotine pouches are generally affordable, making it easy to experiment with different strengths until you find what feels right.

Popular Nicotine Pouch Brands in the UK

The UK market features several trusted pouch brands known for quality, variety, and reliability:

  • ZYN: Produced by Swedish Match, ZYN is famous for its broad range of strengths and flavours, appealing to both new and experienced users.
  • Velo: Manufactured by British American Tobacco (BAT), Velo combines premium ingredients with eco-conscious packaging and Scandinavian design.
  • Nordic Spirit: One of the UK’s best-selling pouch brands, Nordic Spirit is recognised for its smooth, balanced experience and consistent flavour delivery.

These brands have built strong reputations for providing a clean, modern way to enjoy nicotine - without the smoke, vapour, or tobacco.

Nicotine Pouch FAQs

Where should I place my nicotine pouch?

Most users tuck it under their upper lip on one side of the mouth. You can alternate sides if one area starts to feel sore. Some people prefer the lower lip, but this can make speaking less comfortable.

How should I store my nicotine pouches?

Pouch tubs are made to be portable. Before opening, you can refrigerate them to preserve freshness, though this isn’t essential. Once opened, they’ll stay fine at room temperature.

Can I chew or swallow the pouch?

No - nicotine pouches are designed to rest in the mouth, not be chewed or swallowed. Some users gently press their jaw to release flavour, but avoid biting down hard.

How are pouches different from gum or nicotine patches?

Like gum and patches, pouches are discreet and easy to use. However, they offer more control over intake - you can remove a pouch whenever you’ve had enough. Unlike gum, there’s no chewing involved, and pouches typically last longer.

Can nicotine pouches cause side effects?

Mild side effects such as hiccups, mouth irritation, or nausea can occur if you use a strength that’s too high or consume too many pouches. To avoid this, regulate your usage and choose a lower strength if you’re unsure.

Do nicotine pouches contain tobacco?

No - pouches from brands like Helwit and FUMi are 100% tobacco-free. They’re often referred to as “white pouches” due to their light colour and clean formulation.