What are Nicotine Pouches Made From?

Oskar Boström

What Are Nicotine Pouches Made Of?

As you probably already know, nicotine pouches are made without tobacco, but what ARE nicotine pouches actually made from? Normally the main ingredients used to make up a nicotine pouch are plant-based fibers, nicotine (duh!), flavorings, PH modifiers and stabilizing agents. Let's break down what this bio-jargon all means!

Plant-Based Fibers

Plant-based fibers, normally which are taken from pine or eucalyptus, form the base of most nicotine pouches to make up the pouch itself. These fibers and "organic cellulose compounds" are processed to create a soft, absorbent material that holds the active ingredients nicely together when using whilst also feeling comfortable in your mouth. Sometimes referred to as a "filler".

This ultimately creates a non-woven fleece (eg the pouch), where varying the thickness helps to decide how the nicotine is released. Sometimes gum is used in the filler also to perfect the texture and smooth mouth feel you get.

The Nicotine Itself

The Nicotine in your pouch is made by extracting it away from tobacco leaves. It is then purified to remove any extra impurities. This is normally done via a process of "solvent extraction" or in a lab using molecular technology by rearranging the molecules to copy tobacco leaves (very star trek!).

"Plant-based fibers, which are normally taken from pine or eucalyptus, form the base of most nicotine pouches to make up the pouch itself."

Flavorings

Flavorings are of course what gives your pouch it's fabulous taste! From refreshing mint to sweet berry tones to the more wild and wacky like bubblegum or jalapeño, flavors are added using food-grade ingredients. These enhance the sensory experience without compromising the pouch's tobacco-free nature. Some pouches may also include natural sweeteners to balance the flavor profile.

pH Levels

In order to regulate the pH level in your pouches a pH modifier or "buffer" is often used (sodium carbonate or bicarbonate) to ensure these levels allow the nicotine to transfer across the mucosa (or for the non-biologists, the membrane inside your mouth!)

Moisture and Stability

Getting the right moisture level in your nicotine pouch is key to delivering a consistent release of nicotine. Glycerin or propylene glycol are often used as an agent to stop the pouches from drying out and help sustain their longevity. These stabilizers further improve shelf life, keeping the pouches fresh and effective over time. Now you know what nicotine pouches are made from!