A picture showing a selection of nicotine pouch tubs.

What Are Nicotine Pouches? The Complete Guide

Nicotine pouches have become a popular choice for people looking for a safe and efficient alternative to smoking. For anyone who is put off by the complexity of vaping, a nicotine pouch provides a quick and easy method to get your fix - best of all, it's discreet. Gone are the days of chain-smoking before you catch a flight, pop one under your lip and rest easy. You can use Nicotine pouches anywhere, they're excellent for office meetings or any indoor situation where smoking or vaping is prohibited.

Most importantly, Nicotine pouches are completely tobacco-free and ideal for anyone seeking to live a healthier lifestyle. In this article, we'll explain what Nicotine pouches are and delve into their history and the variety of options available to you.

1. What are Nicotine Pouches?

Nicotine pouches are small envelopes containing nicotine and they provide a simple tobacco free way to curb your nicotine cravings without the need to invest your time and money in devices. Once in place, they deliver nicotine in a time-released manner that is inhale-free, discreet and can be used for up to an hour. Each pouch contains organic silica granules, flavourings and nicotine that is wrapped in a cotton sleeve and placed under your lip. 

The design was inspired by snus, which is a smokeless tobacco leaf product hugely popular in Sweden in the 20th century. The EU banned the sale of snus in 1992 due to its tobacco related health effects and the UK continues to uphold this ban, post-Brexit, through the Tobacco and Related Products Regulation 2016 (TPR).

In 2000, a Swedish company called Nicovum developed the Nicotine pouch as a tobacco-free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). Nicotine pouches are legal to sell in the UK and have soared in popularity as an effective smoke-free option, due to their subtlety, convenience and effectiveness.

Nicotine pouches won't stain your teeth and their plant-based ingredients make them an excellent choice for the eco-conscious, and you can also recycle the plastic tubs at home!

A white tub with green label on top of Nicotine pouches viewed from above with a small green rectangular Nicotine pouch next to it and above that a small pile of light brown powder which is from inside the Nicotine pouch


Nicotine pouches offer a wide selection of flavours like menthol, fruit and even creative zingers such as jalapeno, that add a dynamic taste experience. There are a range of nicotine strengths to choose from, as well as various sizes ranging from slim and discreet options to larger pouches designed for longer periods of use.

2. How do I choose the right nicotine pouch strength?

One of the major benefits of nicotine pouches is their array of nicotine strengths, offering the user a tailored experience specific to their needs. When choosing your level of nicotine, consider how many cigarettes you smoke per day rather than attempting to match the nicotine strength of your cigarettes. If you are a heavy smoker with strong, regular cravings, then a high-strength option of 17mg might be suitable. If on the other hand, if you require a smoke-free option for social occasions only, then you can opt for a lighter strength of 6mg or lower. We recommend that you begin with a slightly lower dosage when you are just starting out or are a bit uncertain.

 6mg  9mg 12mg 18mg - 20mg
Social smoker Light smoker 10 a day 20+ a day

    Five tubs of nicotine pouches of varying colours and branding each with the strength facing forward

    Nicotine Pouch Size Guide

    Nicotine pouches come in a variety of sizes that enable you to use a one in any situation. You'll be able to satisfy your cravings whether you're in the office, boarding a flight or spending the day outdoors, consider when and where you will be using your pouch and you'll find the right fit for your lifestyle. The most common size is the slim format, prized for its balance between subtlety and nicotine satisfaction. Larger pouches contain more filling and can last up to an hour or more. On the other end of the scale, you have super slim and mini sizes and these can be quite useful if absolute discretion is a must as they will be virtually invisible once placed under your lip. They will, however, last for a shorter period of under half an hour.

    4 different sizes of nicotine pouch in size order from largest to smallest from left to right

    LARGE - These are wide, fat pouches that are noticeable when placed under the lip, but offer the advantage of much longer use of up to 1 hour. Large nicotine pouches are ideal for use at home or when you are outdoors and unable to change your pouch regularly.

    SLIM - The most common format, they are long and thin, making them less noticeable when placed under your lip and can be comfortably enjoyed for between 20 to 45 minutes.

    SUPER SLIM - Long and narrow, these pouches are ideal for use in public and make excellent travel companions in situations where discretion is required.

    MINI - For a totally invisible experience, compact mini pouches offer a quick hit of up to 30 minutes and are an excellent option for complete privacy, say for example a meeting or an interview.

    3.What are the Benefits of Using Nicotine Pouches?

    Convenient: If you are looking for a simple solution, you can't get any easier than nicotine pouches. They take seconds to use and require no maintenance, allowing you to get on with your day.

    Discreet: Once in place, nicotine pouches are hardly noticeable making them perfect for use in any situation.

    Tobacco Free: Satisfy your cravings safe in the knowledge that you are not exposing yourself to any of the harmful chemicals found in tobacco - and they won't stain your teeth!

    Lung Friendly: Anyone with respiratory issues will find that nicotine pouches provide the perfect solution. They are completely inhale-free and the perfect choice if vaping is not an option.

    Restriction Free: Their subtle nature make nicotine pouches ideal for indoor use and travelling on public transport. Travelling abroad? Grab a tub of pouches for a stress free journey.

    Eco-Friendly: Nicotine pouches are biodegradable and the tubs can be recycled with plastic waste, making them the greener option.

     

    4. How to Use Nicotine Pouches

    You'll find nicotine pouches fast and intuitive to use. Simply remove a pouch from the tub and roll it between your fingers to soften, then place the pouch in your mouth between your upper lip and gum and feel the nicotine begin to work within seconds.

    Hands holding an open nicotine pouch tub

    You'll feel a warm tingling sensation as the nicotine is absorbed. It enters your bloodstream through the membrane lining your mouth, providing a steady release of nicotine for much longer periods compared to smoking or vaping. You can dispose of the pouch after 30 minutes to an hour (depending on the pouch size). Used pouches can be stored in a compartment found in the lid of your tub.

    Tips for using nicotine pouches

    • Once in place, use your tongue to position the nicotine pouch even further. 
    • Traditionally nicotine pouches are placed under the top lip, you can also place them under your bottom lip if this feels more comfortable.
    • Nicotine pouches can be positioned towards the front or side of your mouth.
    • Never chew or swallow a nicotine pouch. If you do, consult a health professional as soon as possible.

    5. What Are the Best Nicotine Pouch Brands?

    You are spoilt for choice with the nicotine pouch brands on offer, from the popular Scandinavian Zyn and Nordic Spirit that deliver clean and crisp fruit and menthol options, to daring and playful brands like Loop and Cuba where you can find exciting options like bubblegum, energy drink or melon laced with a fiery chili pepper kick! Most of the brands stock their pouches in the slim format as this is the most popular and accessible size.

    They cater to users of all levels with nicotine strengths that start in the mild range of 3-6mg up to super strong 30mg varieties. Flavour options and nicotine strengths will vary depending on the brand. You'll find that certain brands like Cuba and Pablo specialise in the higher nicotine strength options, whilst brands like Elf Bars best selling Tacja nicotine pouches cater to lower nicotine strengths. 

    Discover the Top 5 Nicotine Pouch Brands or browse our extensive product line here at Alternix, where we stock all the latest top-selling nicotine pouches, complete with multi-buy mix & match deals that can't be beat!

    Shop the best nicotine pouch brands at Alternix.

    6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Are nicotine pouches safer than smoking?

    Nicotine pouches don't contain any tobacco and therefore none of the harmful carcinogens associated with its negative health effects. All you are getting are nicotine and flavourings.

    Do nicotine pouches contain tobacco?

    No, they are tobacco-free products made of plant fibres which contain nicotine and flavourings.

    Can you use nicotine pouches to quit smoking?

    Yes, nicotine pouches are an excellent option for anyone who wants to quit smoking. They can be used anytime you are experiencing a craving to release a steady amount of nicotine into your system for between 20 minutes to 1 hour.

    Are nicotine pouches legal in the UK?

    Yes, nicotine pouches do not contain any tobacco and are perfectly legal to purchase.

    Summary

    Nicotine pouches are a hassle-free way to get your nicotine fix without having to buy any gadgets or learn anything new. They can be tucked discreetly under your lip to deliver a slow release of nicotine whilst you get on with your day, and are a great backup option for vapers as you can use them in any kind of situation. They are also 100% green, with pouches that are biodegradable and tubs that can be recycled.


    If you are ready to explore a smoke-free, discreet way to enjoy nicotine wherever life takes you, browse our selection of nicotine pouches today. With a variety of pouch sizes and nicotine strengths, Alternix offers a tailored experience for your nicotine journey. Take the first step towards a cleaner, greener and more convenient nicotine alternative.


    Disclaimer: The content presented on www.alternix.com is for informational purposes only and is centered around nicotine pouches and heated tobacco products—alternatives to traditional smoking methods. The information provided on this website, including blog posts and social media interactions, is not intended as medical advice, nor should it substitute for professional medical guidance or treatment.