New HPIO explainer explores policy options to address rise in nicotine pouch use

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The Health Policy Institute of Ohio has released a new policy explainer on updating Ohio’s tobacco policy to address nicotine pouch use.

Oral nicotine pouches are small, often flavored, dissolvable packets that users place under their lips to absorb nicotine through the gums. Oral nicotine pouches, also known as ONPs or white snus, are becoming more common, with national sales spiking from 3.3 million units in 2017 to 619.6 million in 2024, as illustrated above.

Because the product is relatively new, research on the health risks of ONPs is limited, especially for long-term use. However, the CDC states: “There are no safe tobacco products, including nicotine pouches. This is especially true for youth, young adults, and women who are pregnant.”

The new HPIO policy explainer highlights what is known and unknown about nicotine pouch use in Ohio and describes current policy surrounding nicotine pouches.