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How to Choose Nicotine Pouches
Not sure which nicotine strength, flavour or pouch size to choose? Our buying guide covers the main differences between nicotine pouches, from Mini and Slim formats to moisture levels and ingredients. You'll also find links to more detailed guides and product ranges if you'd like to explore a particular topic.
What Are Nicotine Pouches?
Nicotine pouches are small, tobacco-free pouches that sit between your upper lip and gum. They contain nicotine, plant-based fibres, flavourings and other ingredients, with nicotine gradually absorbed through the lining of your mouth, known as the oral mucosa.
You don't need to chew or swallow the pouch. It stays in place while nicotine and flavour are released, usually for around 20–60 minutes, depending on the product manufacturer's instructions.
Nicotine can be extracted from tobacco plants or made synthetically, but the finished pouches contain no tobacco leaf. They also produce no smoke or vapour, although nicotine remains addictive and can cause side effects.
Nicotine Strength Guide
Nicotine pouch strength tells you how much nicotine is in each pouch, measured in milligrams (mg). You'll find strengths from around 1mg to 45mg per pouch at Alternix, alongside nicotine-free 0mg alternatives.
We've grouped the range into four strength categories to make browsing easier:
- Mild (1–6mg): Includes 3mg, 4mg and 6mg options.
- Medium (7–12mg): Includes strengths such as 8mg, 9mg and 12mg.
- Strong (13–19mg): Includes 13.2mg, 15mg and 18mg products.
- Extra Strong (20mg+): Includes higher-strength options such as 20mg, 30mg and 45mg.
You might also see nicotine strength written as mg/g on some cans. This measures the nicotine concentration per gram of pouch material, rather than the amount in each individual pouch.
We show nicotine strength in mg per pouch on our product listings, so you can compare different brands and formats using the same measurement. Higher strengths contain more nicotine and can increase the risk of side effects.
Which strength suits you depends on your current nicotine use. If you're new to nicotine pouches, the Mild and Medium ranges are the usual place to start. Strong and Extra Strong pouches are made for experienced adult nicotine users.
Best Nicotine Pouch Brands
You'll find a mix of established Swedish nicotine pouch brands and other specialist names at Alternix, each with its own selection of flavours, strengths and pouch formats.
ZYN offers Mini and Slim nicotine pouches in strengths from 1.5mg to 13.5mg. There's a choice of mint, menthol, citrus and fruit flavours, along with dry and moist formats.
Nordic Spirit has strengths from 4mg to 17mg, with Mini and Slim sizes and both Moist and Dry pouches. Its flavour range includes mint, berry and fruit varieties.
VELO offers a broad mix of mint, menthol and fruity flavours. You'll find everything from peppermint and spearmint to cooling fruit blends, with different nicotine strengths and pouch formats depending on the product.
PABLO has several ranges, including Silver, Gold, Original and Exclusive. These cover different nicotine strengths, with flavours ranging from mint and ice to berry, citrus and tropical fruit. Some Exclusive products contain around 30mg per pouch.
KILLA offers 13.2mg nicotine pouches in flavours such as Grape Ice, Dark Cherry and Strawberry Watermelon, alongside other mint, fruit and sweet combinations.
We also stock FUMi, CUBA, SNÜ and V&YOU, and many more, so you can compare newer names alongside the most popular nicotine pouch brands.
You can browse our range of pouch brands to compare the available flavours, strengths and pouch sizes.
Nicotine Pouches vs Snus
The main difference between nicotine pouches and snus is tobacco content. Traditional Swedish snus contains tobacco, while nicotine pouches are tobacco-free. Both sit between your upper lip and gum, releasing nicotine through contact with the lining of your mouth.
Nicotine pouches typically contain plant-based fibres, nicotine, flavourings and other ingredients. The nicotine itself can still come from tobacco plants, but there's no tobacco leaf in the finished pouch. That's why you'll sometimes see them described as tobacco-free snus, white snus or all-white snus.
There's also an important legal distinction in the UK. Traditional tobacco snus is banned from sale, while tobacco-free nicotine pouches are a separate product category that can legally be sold to adults.
Both products contain addictive nicotine, and neither is risk-free. If you'd like to understand the differences in ingredients, appearance and how they're used, our full comparison guide covers them in more detail.
Top Nicotine Pouch Flavours
Nicotine pouch flavours cover everything from fresh mint and icy menthol to sweet berries, citrus and tropical fruit. You'll find single flavours as well as combinations such as Strawberry Kiwi, Blueberry Ice and Cherry Cola.
Mint and menthol are popular flavour categories, with options including peppermint, spearmint, sweet mint and icy mint. Peppermint has a sharper flavour profile, while spearmint tends to be sweeter. Menthol adds a cooling sensation and is often paired with mint or fruit flavours.
Fruit and berry flavours include strawberry, blueberry, blackcurrant, mango, watermelon and apple. If you prefer something citrusy, look for lemon, lime and orange, including blends with other fruits.
There's also a choice of sweet and alternative flavours, from cola and bubblegum to coffee, liquorice and dessert-inspired combinations.
Pouch moisture can affect flavour release too. Moist pouches often begin releasing flavour sooner, while dry pouches may release it more gradually. The exact difference depends on the product's formulation. An icy or cooling flavour doesn't necessarily mean a higher nicotine strength.
How to Use Nicotine Pouches
Nicotine pouches sit between your upper lip and gum, gradually releasing nicotine and flavour while they're in place. You don't need to chew, suck or swallow them.
Using a pouch is straightforward, but it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Usage times commonly range from 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the product. Remove the pouch if you experience irritation, nausea, dizziness or other discomfort.
Open the Can:
Open your can and remove one nicotine pouch.
Place Under Your Lip:
Position the pouch between your upper lip and gum, where it can stay in place without being chewed.
Nicotine and Flavour Release:
Nicotine and flavour gradually release from the pouch. Nicotine is absorbed through the lining of your mouth, and you may notice a tingling sensation.
Remove and Dispose:
Follow the manufacturer's recommended usage time, then remove the pouch. Some cans have a compartment in the lid for used pouches. Dispose of them responsibly and keep both used and unused pouches away from children and pets.
What Are Nicotine Pouches Made Of?
Nicotine pouches contain a mixture of ingredients that affect how they feel, how they hold moisture and how nicotine and flavour are released. The exact formula varies between brands and products.
Most contain nicotine, plant-based fibres or other fillers, flavourings and moisture-retaining ingredients called humectants. Some also contain sweeteners and acidity regulators, which help control the pouch's formulation and can influence nicotine release and absorption.
The nicotine itself can come from two sources. Tobacco-derived nicotine is extracted from tobacco plants, while synthetic nicotine is manufactured without extracting nicotine from tobacco. Neither means the finished pouch contains tobacco leaf.
Ingredients also affect characteristics such as texture, moisture and flavour release, so it's worth checking the manufacturer's information if you'd like to know what's in a particular product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do nicotine pouches contain tobacco?
No, nicotine pouches don't contain tobacco leaf. The nicotine may be extracted from tobacco plants or produced synthetically, but the finished pouches are tobacco-free. Other ingredients typically include plant-based fibres, flavourings and moisture-retaining agents.
How do nicotine pouches work?
Nicotine pouches work by releasing nicotine through contact with the lining of your mouth. You place a pouch between your upper lip and gum, where nicotine is absorbed through the oral mucosa. There's no need for smoke, vapour or a device, and usage times vary by manufacturer.
How long do nicotine pouches last?
Each pouch usually lasts 20 to 60 minutes in use, depending on the product and the manufacturer's instructions. Unopened cans keep best somewhere cool and dry, so check the best-before date on the can. Once opened, pouches can dry out over time.
Can you reuse nicotine pouches?
No. Nicotine pouches are designed for single use. Most of the nicotine and flavour is released the first time, so a used pouch won't give the same experience. Put it in the lid compartment or a bin.
How many nicotine pouches can you use a day?
There's no set number that suits everyone. Follow the manufacturer's guidance and take your current nicotine use into account. Using pouches back to back, or at higher strengths, increases your nicotine intake and the risk of side effects such as nausea or dizziness. If you notice these, remove the pouch and take a break.
What nicotine pouch strengths are available?
At Alternix, you'll find nicotine-containing pouches from around 1mg to 45mg per pouch, alongside nicotine-free 0mg alternatives. You can browse Mild (1–6mg), Medium (7–12mg), Strong (13–19mg) and Extra Strong (20mg+) categories. Each product listing shows the nicotine content in mg per pouch.
What sizes do nicotine pouches come in?
Nicotine pouches are available in Mini, Slim and, from some manufacturers, larger formats. Mini pouches are smaller and take up less space under your upper lip, while Slim pouches have a longer, narrow shape. Exact dimensions vary by brand, so it's worth checking the product details if pouch size matters to you.
What nicotine pouch flavours are available?
You'll find mint, menthol, fruit, berry, citrus and sweet nicotine pouch flavours. Popular varieties include peppermint, spearmint, strawberry, blueberry, mango, watermelon, lemon, lime and cola. There are also combinations such as Strawberry Kiwi and Cherry Cola, with availability varying by brand and nicotine strength.
What nicotine pouch brands does Alternix stock?
Alternix stocks nicotine pouch brands including ZYN, VELO, Nordic Spirit, PABLO, KILLA, FUMi, CUBA, SNÜ and V&YOU. Each has its own selection of flavours, nicotine strengths and pouch sizes. You can browse our brand collections to see the current range.
Are nicotine pouches addictive?
Yes, nicotine pouches containing nicotine are addictive. Regular nicotine use can lead to dependence, and stopping may cause withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, irritability and difficulty concentrating. Nicotine-containing pouches aren't recommended for people who don't already use nicotine.
Are nicotine pouches safe?
Nicotine pouches aren't risk-free. Nicotine is addictive and may cause nausea, dizziness, increased heart rate or irritation of the mouth and gums. Although pouches don't produce tobacco smoke, their long-term health effects aren't yet fully understood.
Why do nicotine pouches irritate your gums?
The tingle is nicotine acting on the lining of your mouth, and it often feels stronger with higher-strength pouches. Some people also experience soreness or irritation where the pouch rests against the gum. If a pouch causes discomfort, remove it. If irritation persists or you notice changes in your gums or mouth, stop using the product and speak to your dentist.
Can nicotine pouches help you quit smoking?
Some people use nicotine pouches instead of cigarettes, but nicotine pouches aren't established or approved as stop-smoking treatments in the UK. Research into their effectiveness for smoking cessation is still developing. If you're looking to quit smoking, NHS stop smoking services can help you find proven treatments and support.
Where can I use nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches don't produce smoke or vapour, so you may be able to use them in places where smoking or vaping is restricted. However, workplaces, venues, airlines and transport operators can have their own rules. It's best to check before using a pouch.
Can I buy snus in the UK?
You can't legally buy traditional tobacco snus in the UK, as its sale is prohibited. Tobacco-free nicotine pouches are a separate type of oral nicotine product, sometimes called tobacco-free snus or all-white snus. You can browse these products at Alternix in different flavours and nicotine strengths.
How should I store nicotine pouches?
Keep your nicotine pouches in their original cans, somewhere cool and dry, away from children and pets. Follow the manufacturer's storage instructions, particularly if a product has specific temperature requirements. Used pouches can still contain nicotine, so dispose of them responsibly rather than leaving them lying around.
How much do nicotine pouches cost?
Nicotine pouch prices vary by brand, strength and pack quantity. You'll find individual cans, selected multi-buy deals and discounted products at Alternix. Check our current nicotine pouch offers to compare prices and see which savings are available. If you're looking for cheap nicotine pouches, multi-buy deals and bulk buys lower the price per can, and orders of £15 or more get free next-day UK delivery.
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