Understanding the Difference Between Nicotine Content and Nicotine Uptake

Nicotine pouches have recently come under scrutiny in public debate, often with a focus on their nicotine content. But as Nicoleaks rightly points out, it’s essential to distinguish between how much nicotine a product contains and how much is actually absorbed by the body. At Pouch Patrol, we share that view – and want to contribute to a more informed discussion.

Nicotine Uptake Is More Than Just Milligrams

Comparing the nicotine content of pouches to cigarettes without considering how the nicotine is absorbed is like comparing apples and oranges. Nicotine pouches are placed in the mouth, where absorption happens slowly via the mucous membranes – unlike cigarette smoke, which reaches the bloodstream within seconds via the lungs.

This means that pouches need to contain more nicotine than cigarettes to deliver a similar effect. It’s not about increasing risk – it’s about offering a realistic alternative for those who want to quit smoking.

20 mg Is a Reasonable Limit

Cigarettes contain between 8 and 20mg of nicotine. This would make pouches with an upper limit of 20mg per pouch equivalent in terms of content to cigarettes in the higher range, but not in terms of uptake.  Pouches deliver less nicotine and at a slower rate, which means a 20mg per pouch is more similar in effect to an average cigarette. An upper limit of 20mg per pouch has been recommended by the Swedish Institute for Standards.

Dr. Marina Murphy, Senior Director of Scientific Affairs at Haypp Group, puts it well:

“Reduced-risk products are only valuable if consumers actually use them instead of cigarettes. That’s why they also need to deliver nicotine in a way that’s competitive.”

Many Factors Influence Nicotine Uptake

Nicoleaks’ article highlights several nuanced factors that affect nicotine absorption:

• pH level: A higher pH makes nicotine more available for absorption in the mouth.

• Moisture and format: These affect how much nicotine can actually be extracted from the pouch.

• Individual differences: Everyone’s body reacts differently – a single nicotine limit must be flexible enough to work for many.
  

Conclusion

We agree: it’s time to talk about nicotine in a more nuanced and scientific way. Sensationalist headlines comparing pouches to cigarettes without understanding the underlying biology do more harm than good. Let’s focus on reducing smoking – with facts, not fear.