UC professor warns against rising nicotine pouch use

Local 12 news interviewed Ashley Merianos, PhD, professor in the UC School of Human Services about her latest research showing a sharp increase in nicotine pouch use among adult tobacco users from 2021 to 2024.

Nicotine pouch usage among “ever users” — individuals who have used the product at least once — rose from 16.4% to 31.1%, while current nicotine pouch use increased from 3% to 10.2% during the study period.

The study findings were published recently in the scholarly journal Addiction and Merianos, a public health expert, was the lead investigator.

Nicotine pouches contain a powder made of nicotine, flavorings and other ingredients. A pouch is placed between the upper or lower lip and the gum. Saliva releases the nicotine, which  is absorbed through the gums and lining of the mouth. 

In 2024, use was more common among men, adults ages 21 to 45 and people currently using tobacco products, especially smokeless tobacco users. Merianos says these patterns suggest that nicotine pouches may be used alongside other forms of tobacco for some users.

“They have been deemed less harmful than traditional cigarettes, but less harmful does not mean no harm,” Merianos told Local 12. “And so we need more studies that are long-term to figure out the overall impact that they are going to have on the health of the U.S.” 

Listen to the interview on Local 12.

Her research was also reported by US News & World Report, StudyFinds, HealthDay and aired for short segments on television broadcasts across the nation.

Learn more about Dr. Merianos’ research on the topic.

Featured top image of Dr. Ashley Merianos in the College of Education, Criminal Justice and Human Services. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Communications.