Patterns of nicotine pouch use among young Australians

Despite increasing interest in the use of nicotine pouches in Australia - where retail sale of the products is illegal - research exploring patterns of pouch use and reasons for use is lacking. Accordingly, this study explored young Australians' experiences with nicotine pouches.

An online survey was administered to 1598 Australians aged 16-39 years (53 % women). We assessed (i) awareness and use (lifetime and past 30-day) of nicotine pouches, (ii) patterns of use (e.g., flavours and nicotine strength used), (iii) product source, and (iv) reasons for use. Regression analyses were conducted to assess socio-demographic predictors of awareness and use.

Just over three-quarters (77 %) of the sample reported being aware of nicotine pouches. Lifetime use was reported by 26 % of respondents and past 30-day use by 19 %. Among those who reported past 30-day use, fruit (35 %) and menthol/mint (34 %) flavours were most commonly used. In terms of pouch source, one-third (33 %) reported obtaining the product from a tobacconist. The most common reasons for use were "they come in flavours I like" (34 %) and "to help me quit smoking" (32 %). Awareness, lifetime use, and past 30-day use of nicotine pouches were more likely among men, those who reported current use of tobacco products, and those who reported current use of e-cigarettes.

Awareness and use of nicotine pouches among young Australians may be substantial enough to warrant the inclusion of items measuring pouch use in national surveys. Efforts should be made to better enforce existing laws regarding the sale of nicotine pouches.