Smokeless nicotine product luring kids

New, easy-to-conceal pouch use on the rise

By Mio Moser | Manor Ink

Sullivan County, NY – While many are aware of the dangers of conventional tobacco products such as cigarettes and vaping, there is another nicotine product, whose dangers are known by few, that is rapidly gaining popularity in Sullivan County’s schools, based on what Manor Ink has heard.

In 2014, the tobacco manufacturer brand Swedish Match introduced a product known as Zyn to the United States. The new product rapidly expanded, until it was available in upwards of 100,000 stores across the country, with these mainly consisting of establishments such as gas stations and convenience stores.

Not a ‘healthier’ alternative

Zyn comes in small, cylindrical plastic containers, similar to those used for mints. The actual products themselves are known as “nicotine pouches,” and resemble chewing gum – though users don’t have to chew them or spit out juice, as with chewing tobacco. The pouches are meant to be placed between the gums and the cheek, where they deliver nicotine derived from tobacco plants for approximately thirty minutes.

The product is presented in bright, appealing packaging, though with a mandated warning about the addictiveness of nicotine. Similar to vaping, the pouches come in different flavors and nicotine intensities. In addition, its producers market Zyn as an alternative to smoking. While it is true that no smoke is being inhaled, consumers can still develop equally severe nicotine addictions, which is why customers should pay attention to their consumption levels.

The absence of smoke makes it nearly impossible to tell whether or not Zyn is being used by an individual. This makes it particularly attractive to high school students under 18 who should not be consuming any nicotine products. While no concrete statistics on its use exist for Sullivan County at present, it is likely that Zyn will establish itself among students across all the county’s schools in upcoming months.

Few sources for information

Many parents may not have heard of Zyn, and are unaware of the danger it poses to their children. Additionally, there are nearly zero resources warning youth of the dangers that come with the consumption of this product. When searching “Zyn Sullivan County” online, one is not provided with agencies offering help and counseling, but rather with multiple websites that will sell you the product.

One positive aspect of Zyn, however, is that it can be used to transition away from smoking or vaping. This is what motivated Andrew Grace, an employee of the DeBruce General Store, who was urged to try Zyn by his brother.

“Since I started Zyn, I just haven’t had the craving, the urge to hit a vape,” Grace said. “It’s no different than just chewing tobacco. I use it once every few hours,” he added.

While Zyn may be promoted as an alternative to smoking or vaping, it is important to remember that it, too, can contain the same amount of the addictive chemical nicotine. Thus, if you personally are struggling with quitting or if you know someone who is, it is recommended to seek help from a professional or a trusted source. As for under-aged teens, they are advised to avoid the product altogether.

Facts about smokeless pouches

• About 1.5 percent of middle and high school students reported using nicotine pouches, according to the US Centers for Disease Control’s 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey.

• Unlike cigarettes or chewing tobacco, there is no tobacco in Zyn pouches. Unlike a vape, the product is not inhaled. This makes it easier for teens to conceal Zyn use and may contribute to the belief that its pouches are healthier than other nicotine delivery products.

• Nicotine can be harmful to young brains, which are still developing and maturing, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Its use during adolescence can lead to attention deficit disorders and learning disabilities.

• Senator Charles Schumer has called on the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission to investigate Zyn, saying nicotine pouches are potentially dangerous to teens who are using them in place of vapes and cigarettes.

From Parents Magazine, parents.com