Nicotine pouches are small, white, tobacco-free pouches that you place between your gum and upper lip to absorb nicotine through the lining of your mouth. They have become one of the most popular smoke-free nicotine formats in the UK because they are discreet, produce no smoke or vapour, and require no spitting. This guide explains what they are, how they work and how to find one that suits you.
Quick answer: A nicotine pouch is a tobacco-free pouch containing nicotine, flavourings and plant-based fibres. You tuck it under your top lip for around 30-60 minutes to get a steady release of nicotine, then throw it away. You can browse the full range at our nicotine pouch shop.
What is inside a nicotine pouch?
Unlike traditional snus, modern nicotine pouches contain no tobacco leaf. A typical pouch is made from food-grade plant fibres, nicotine, flavourings, sweeteners and pH adjusters that help the nicotine release. Because there is no tobacco and no combustion, there is no smoke, ash or tar involved. Nicotine is still an addictive substance, so pouches are for existing adult nicotine users (18+) only.
How do nicotine pouches work?
You place a single pouch between your gum and upper lip. Nicotine is gradually absorbed through the oral mucosa (the lining of your mouth), so you do not need to chew, suck or spit. Most people keep a pouch in for roughly 30 to 60 minutes. You may notice a slight tingle, which is normal and usually settles as you get used to it.
Nicotine pouches vs traditional snus
Traditional Swedish snus contains real tobacco. The sale of tobacco snus is banned across the UK and most of the EU (Sweden has an exemption), which is why you will not find it here. Tobacco-free nicotine pouches are legal to sell in the UK and deliver nicotine without the tobacco leaf. If you want the detail, see our guides on whether snus is legal in the UK and whether nicotine pouches are legal in the UK.
Strengths: how much nicotine?
Pouches are sold in a range of strengths, usually shown in milligrams of nicotine per pouch. Lighter pouches suit those who want a milder experience, while stronger pouches are aimed at heavier nicotine users. If you are new to pouches, it is sensible to start lower and adjust from there. Our beginner's guide walks through this in more detail.
Flavours and formats
Flavour is one of the main reasons people choose a particular pouch. Mint and menthol options give a cool, fresh feel, while fruit flavours such as berry, mango and citrus are also popular. Pouches also vary in size and moisture, from slim and dry to larger, moister formats. You can explore brands like Velo, ZYN, Pablo and Killa to compare styles.
How to choose your first pouch
Think about three things: strength, flavour and pouch size. A moderate strength with a familiar mint flavour is a comfortable starting point for many people. A good low-risk way to experiment is our mix and match offer (any 3 cans for £9.99), or you can pick up a bargain from the 99p cans selection. UK delivery is free on orders over £25.
Things to keep in mind
Nicotine is addictive and pouches are intended only for adults who already use nicotine. Some users notice gum irritation, a dry mouth or mild nausea, especially with higher strengths. Use one pouch at a time, dispose of it responsibly and stop if it does not agree with you. If you are also curious about caffeine pouches, see our caffeine pouches guide.
For adult nicotine users only (18+). Contains nicotine, which is an addictive substance.