Zyn Review (2025) | Every Zyn Nicotine Pouch Flavour Ranked & Rated

The nicotine strength ranges from light 1.5mg - 3mg options, medium 6mg - 9.5mg and stronger 12.5mg options.

Depending on the brand, what some may consider strong, or extra strong, others may label mild or medium strength. In the UK, the spectrum of nicotine strength in pouches ranges from 1.5mg to 30mg per pouch. In Zyn’s case, their ‘strong’ is a 6mg strength which generally is considered mild or a beginner level (social smoker) level. XX-Strong is a 12.5mg strength which sits about halfway between what is available.

That being said, the nicotine pouch industry could do with standardisation when it comes to grading nicotine strength on their packaging. Some brands use wording like X-Strong, others use a 5-dot visual system, and some may list the nicotine strength in total weight (mg/g) or mg per pouch. At Alternix we feel that mg per pouch is the more accurate measurement and we’ll be using that when mentioning nicotine pouch strength in this review.

For a better understanding of nicotine strength check out our article on ‘Understanding Nicotine Pouch Strength’ before you buy your first tub of nicotine pouches, it will save you money in the long run.

First impressions

Initially, I was greeted with a milky note of smooth cream, which slowly developed into a robust coffee flavour. Subtle notes of chocolate bring a good amount of sweetness and the full-bodied roasted coffee flavour is accurate and balanced. I hate having to bin a nic pouch early because the flavour is too intense, and thankfully this wasn't the case with Espressino, which provided a gradual release of sweet and creamy coffee that didn’t overwhelm me at all.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

I picked up the cream note within the first five minutes, followed by a distinctive note of coffee and sugar. The Espressino flavour peaks at around the 10 minute mark.

How long does it last for?

I used the ‘mini’ version which fit comfortably and was a pleasant change from the slim size as it is much flatter. This does however mean that the pouch lasts for up to 30 minutes. I can report though, that the flavour is consistent for the full half an hour.

Is the flavour accurate?

Yes. This tastes like coffee. My only criticism is that this is supposed to be an espresso, so I would have liked a more robust coffee note and less sweetness and cream. I would class this more as a cappuccino or latte flavour - but it's still good.

Who would like this?

Zyn Espressino will delight coffee lovers with its smoothness and rich flavour. That said, it could also win over a lot of mint users, who may find it a welcome change to the constant kick of menthol. Espressino is the obvious choice for your morning nic pouch and its balanced flavours and sweetness will see coffee lovers savouring it all day.

First impressions

Opening the can I noticed the promising aroma of lemon and lime. So I popped one in and waited, and waited. The flavour does capture the classic taste of hard boiled lemon sweets, but it is very muted. I had to lick the pouch to really get a sense of what it tasted like, which was quite nice but not something you want to be doing all the time. There is a good blend of acidic lemon and sweet lime but it needs more punch.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

After 10 minutes there is a very mild note of lemon with an undernote of lime, the flavour of Zyn Citrus doesn't reach heights greater than this.

How long does it last for?

The citrus flavour is consistent throughout the 30 minute lifespan of the pouch and unfortunately, it remains very subtle.

Is the flavour accurate?

Yes, you can taste a well balanced combination of lemons and limes, just.

Who would like this?

This might be the perfect pouch for people who don’t want an overpowering taste in their mouth. Citrus is a background flavour that would make an ideal option for everyday use.

First impressions

Zyn Icy Mint is a flavour that doesn’t waste any time. A cool ice note hits you almost immediately and the mint builds rapidly within the first 5 minutes. The cool ice note is localised around the gums and the mint flavour is all there and develops as the top note on the tongue. I’m reminded of chewing a stick of fresh minty gum.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

The pouch's moistness definitely increases the flavour's rapidity - it’s almost instantaneous, a chill of ice as soon as you place the pouch followed by a strong mint flavour.

How long does it last for?

Icy Mint lasted for the entire pouch duration, about 45 minutes as we tested the slim size. Cool Ice from the pouch and a robust peppermint flavour in the mouth.

Is the flavour accurate?

Absolutely. This icy mint pouch does what it says on the tin. I would have preferred the ice to spread beyond the confines of the pouch but it's a small niggle.

Who would like this?

Anyone looking for strong minty refreshment will love this combination of arctic coolness and spicy mint, it's like chewing a fresh stick of icy mint gum.

First impressions

Icy Blackcurrant is simply moreish, I was enveloped with a berry aroma as I opened the tub, and the moistness of the pouches made the flavour hit immediately. Imagine biting down on a plump and juicy blackcurrant you've just picked from a countryside ramble. It's the dominant note here, there is loads of flavour that fills the mouth with sweet and tangy berries and the ice come in behind to add a touch of fresh excitement to the experience.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

Within seconds your mouth is filled with juicy blackcurrant flavour, the ice takes a little longer to develop but it's there.

How long does it last for?

A strong burst of flavour for the first 15 minutes that mellowed throughout the remaining 45 minutes of use that I got out of the 12.5mg slim pouch, which is ideal for stronger nicotine cravings. However, in this instance, the loss of flavour served as a timely indication that the pouch was finished.

Is the flavour accurate?

The stand-out quality of Zyn Icy Blackcurrant is it's accuracy, I was anticipating a blackcurrant candy or wine gum flavour, but not so, this is fresh berry fruit all the way.

Who would like this?

If fresh, authentic blackcurrant fruit is what you're after then you are going to love Icy Blackcurrant. It is a rich and refreshing berry fruit delight and one of the best Zyn flavours in the bunch.

First impressions

Cool Mint is a very mild flavour reminiscent of peppermint chewing gum. A hint of menthol sits nicely in the background with peppermint being the dominant note. The taste is accurate, if quite subtle which I think would suit anyone who likes mint but doesn’t want it too strong.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

The pouch is dry, so the flavour took about 5 minutes to develop. The menthol note is the first to come through followed by a light mint.

How long does it last for?

Cool Mint peaks at about the 20-minute mark and then drops off. It is a very muted flavour to begin with, so I wasn’t expecting it to be that noticeable towards the end, which it isn’t.

Is the flavour accurate?

Zyn Cool Mint hits the marks for accurate peppermint flavour with a suggestion of cooling menthol.

Who would like this?

Lovers of refreshing mint flavours looking for an easy all day pouch that doesn’t overwhelm your senses will find Cool Mint the perfect fit.

First impressions

Zyn Chili Guava is a flavour I saved for last as I enjoy both these flavours and I was not disappointed. Smooth tropical fruit and a warm blaze of chili come in swinging, delivering an expert balance of sweetness and a moderate level of heat. Most of the heat is localised around the pouch, whilst exotic fruit develops on the palate. I also noticed a welcome hint of spice from the chili on my tongue - a tasty and exciting flavour.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

This is a moist pouch that takes seconds to release its tantalising combination of flavours.

How long does it last for?

A good balance of fruit and spice was present throughout the 45 minute duration of the pouch. The heat from the chili does begin to dissipate halfway through but the spicy flavour remains.

Is the flavour accurate?

The guava notes are rich and on point and the chili delivers a blazing kick that has just the right level of heat.

Who would like this?

Zyn’s Chili Guava is a fun flavour that makes for a welcome change for anyone who wants a break from traditional mint and fruit combinations.

First Impressions

Apple Mint hits with a refreshing note of crisp green apples, lifted by a sprig of cool peppermint. The sweet-sour apple base works well with the mellow mint, making for a surprisingly balanced and clean flavour. It’s more subtle than the icy mint options, and ideal if you want something fruity without straying too far into sweet-shop territory.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

Starts developing within 10–15 seconds. The crisp apple comes through first, with mint kicking in shortly after to round it off.

How long does it last for?

Around 30–35 minutes. The mint lingers the longest, while the apple fades slightly towards the end.

Is the flavour accurate?

Yes. The apple flavour feels clean and natural, more like a Granny Smith than a candy apple. The mint balances it nicely without overpowering.

Who would like this?

Great choice for anyone who wants something refreshing and fruity without going full ice or full sweet. An easy all-day flavour for pouch users who like a bit of zing.

First Impressions

Zyn Red Fruits is a bold mix that blends strawberry, raspberry and a tart rhubarb twist. There’s a cool menthol finish, but it’s more of a supporting act here. The result is a rich, complex flavour with a slightly herbal edge. Not one for everyone, but undeniably unique and surprisingly moreish once you’re used to it.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

Flavour starts developing within the first minute, with layers unfolding over time. Rhubarb and menthol come in after a couple of minutes.

How long does it last for?

Lasts around 35–40 minutes. The berry notes linger, while the menthol fades toward the end.

Is the flavour accurate?

It’s a pretty ambitious blend, but it works. Strawberry and raspberry are clear, and the rhubarb adds a sharp, distinctive twist.

Who would like this?

Best for users who like their pouches complex and enjoy bold, tangy flavours with a bit of menthol bite.

First Impressions

Spearmint offers a softer mint experience compared to Icy Mint or Cool Mint. It’s sweet, mellow, and reminiscent of spearmint gum – refreshing without the harsh freeze. This makes it a solid pick for those who want a minty option that’s easier on the sinuses and not overly intense.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

Instant. The sweet spearmint flavour is there from the first minute and remains stable throughout.

How long does it last for?

30–40 minutes, depending on how moist the pouch is. Flavour remains consistent and doesn’t wear out quickly.

Is the flavour accurate?

Yes – it’s smooth, slightly sweet, and very much like spearmint chewing gum. Less medicinal than menthol or peppermint.

Who would like this?

Best suited to ex-smokers who liked menthols but want a gentler, gum-like mint flavour. Also ideal for everyday, casual use.

First Impressions

Think of Blackcurrant Frost as the cooler sibling to Icy Blackcurrant. It’s still rich and fruity but has a heavier menthol note that dials up the refreshment. Slightly drier on the tongue than Icy Blackcurrant, this pouch tastes more like a lozenge flavour that’s crisp, clean, and long-lasting.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

Flavour builds quickly – within 15–20 seconds you get that fruity hit, with frost kicking in not long after.

How long does it last for?

A full 35–40 minutes. The frosty sensation outlasts the blackcurrant slightly, but both hold up well.

Is the flavour accurate?

The blackcurrant is rich and full-bodied, while the menthol doesn’t overwhelm – just enough to keep things sharp.

Who would like this?

Perfect for users who want a fruit-ice combo with a bit more bite than Icy Blackcurrant. If you liked berry lozenges, you’ll love this.

First Impressions

Zyn Menthol Ice strips things back to basics – pure menthol with no frills. It’s strong, clean and delivers a consistent cooling effect throughout use. If you’re switching from menthol cigarettes or just want a no-nonsense refresh, this will do the job without any distracting fruity extras.

How long does the flavour take to develop?

Pretty much immediate. You get that menthol punch in the first 5 seconds.

How long does it last for?

Solid 30 minutes, with the cold sensation staying steady and tapering slowly.

Is the flavour accurate?

Yes – it’s pure menthol, no flavour additives or sweetness. Very clean, very cooling.

Who would like this?

This one’s for the purists — menthol smokers, pouch veterans, or anyone needing a brain freeze in pouch form. Not for the faint-hearted.