The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has officially approved Zyn nicotine pouches for sale following an extensive scientific evaluation of their safety. The agency stated in a release on Thursday that these pouches have a lower risk of causing cancer and other serious health issues compared to cigarettes and other smokeless tobacco products.
Furthermore, the FDA noted that Zyn pouches could potentially help cigarette smokers quit, based on evidence suggesting a switch to these products. Matthew Farrelly, Ph.D., the director of the Office of Science in the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, mentioned that these nicotine pouch products benefit adults who transition from cigarettes or smokeless tobacco to Zyn.
Zyn’s popularity has surged in recent years due to a viral online trend, leading to a shortage last year. During the FDA’s official review of Zyn’s health effects and usage among young individuals, the product operated in a legal gray area. The FDA’s assessment revealed that Zyn’s use among minors has been relatively low, with ongoing monitoring of this trend.
Philip Morris International Inc., the company holding the U.S. rights to Zyn, did not provide an immediate response for comment. The FDA clarified in its release that while Zyn met certain safety standards, it does not mean the products are completely safe or FDA-approved. The agency emphasized that no tobacco product is entirely safe, advising against tobacco use for youth and non-tobacco users.
