A nicotine pouch is a small bag that contains the addictive chemical nicotine and some other ingredients. It doesn’t have tobacco leaf in it. People who use nicotine pouches take them by mouth. They put one between their gum and lip for up to an hour. They don’t smoke it or swallow it.

Some companies that make nicotine pouches market them as a safer alternative to smoking and dipping. But talk to your doctor before you use them to try to kick the habit. They’re not an FDA-approved type of nicotine-replacement therapy, like nicotine gum or lozenges.

What’s in a Nicotine Pouch?
The main ingredients are nicotine, water, flavorings, sweeteners, and plant-based-based fibers. Product makers sell nicotine pouches in different strengths, so some have more nicotine than others.

The lack of tobacco leaf in them makes them different from other “smokeless” products with nicotine, like chewing tobacco, snuff, and snus. Even though snus can also come in a small pouch that goes in your mouth, it’s filled with moist, finely ground tobacco.