Nowadays, smoking cessation has become a common pursuit for many. By now, the health risks associated with cigarette smoking and tobacco consumption are well-known. However, despite the rise of cigarette alternatives, research suggests that people aren’t so keen to rely on them for smoking cessation.
According to a study from the University of Southern California, despite a 641% increase in nicotine pouch sales between 2019 and 2022, only a few American adults use modern oral products. Out of the 39,557 adults surveyed, only 2.9% reported ever using nicotine pouches, while 0.4% reported current use. Meanwhile, 5.2% of those who attempted to quit smoking in the past year and had picked the habit back up used nicotine pouches to help with their cessation efforts.
The rising popularity of nicotine pouches is in line with recent efforts and initiatives from the government and private organizations to promote smoking cessation. In March 2024, the US Department of Health and Human Services unveiled the HHS’ new framework to accelerate smoking cessation and reduce smoking- and cessation-related disparities. The initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce the death rate from cancer by at least half over 25 years. Part of the new framework focuses on ensuring that American smokers who want to quit have access to the tools and programs they need to quit.
The rise of nicotine pouches
Nicotine pouches are one of many oral nicotine alternatives available on the market today. Like other oral nicotine products, nicotine pouches deliver microlevels of nicotine without the need for smoke or ignition. This provides users with a way to consume nicotine inconspicuously. As such, nicotine pouches have become popular among smokers who want to reduce or quit the habit. The global nicotine pouches market was valued at $5.4 billion in 2023.
Among the many popular brands available today, On! pouches are easily accessible via online retailers or in physical stores like convenience stores, headshops, and gas stations. On! pouches are marketed as a tobacco-free and discreet way to access nicotine without being impacted by the side effects of traditional products like cigarettes or vapes. The pouches come in a variety of flavors, including Berry, Coffee, Cinnamon, and Mint. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can also choose from a range of nicotine strengths, from 2mg to 8mg.
Pouches and other oral alternatives
As mentioned, nicotine pouches are only one of a variety of oral nicotine products available on the market today. Nicotine gum, gummies, and lozenges are also common oral nicotine alternatives that smokers and ex-smokers use to access nicotine without the harm of tobacco and harmful ingredients.
Matching the rise of nicotine pouches, more conventional cessation products like nicotine gum have also begun a shift in marketing and branding to appeal to a broader audience. Startup Blip, for example, is focused on making cessation products like nicotine gum and lozenges less medical through attractive packaging. As with nicotine pouches, Blip gum comes in various flavors including mint, strawberry, and pumpkin space. Of course, aside from marketing purposes, attractive packaging may also contribute to making oral alternatives more accessible to people.
The popularity of oral nicotine products like nicotine pouches is meant to help provide a smoke-free alternative to traditional products like cigarettes and vapes. Another key element of these products is the lack of ignition or electric power required. Aside from the health risks associated with cigarette smoking, air pollution is also a concern. In a previous post, we highlighted the issue of air pollution in the D.C. region and its impact on local communities. Researchers note that disease rates are five times higher in areas affected by air pollution, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and stroke.
Ultimately, promoting ways to reduce or eliminate smoking is a significant step towards improving public and environmental health.
