Whenever a new product explodes in popularity, rumors follow. From school locker rooms to office water coolers, misinformation about nicotine pouches (like Zyn) is rampant.
Here are the top 5 myths we hear at Pouch Express—debunked.
Myth #1: "There is fiberglass in them."
The Rumor: Manufacturers put crushed glass in the pouch to cut your gums so nicotine enters the blood.
The Truth: 100% False. This is an old legend from the chewing tobacco days. The "sting" you feel is from nicotine (which is peppery) and pH adjusters (salts like sodium carbonate). There is absolutely no glass. The white powder is cellulose (plant fiber), gum base, and flavor.
Myth #2: "You're supposed to chew them."
The Truth: No! Chewing a pouch breaks the wrapper and dumps the contents into your mouth. It ruins the experience and makes you sick. They are for parking, not chewing.
Myth #3: "They cause lung cancer."
The Truth: Lung cancer is primarily caused by inhaling smoke (tar/combustion). Since you don't inhale a pouch, there is zero risk to your lungs. (Note: They still carry nicotine addiction risks, but not lung cancer).
Myth #4: "They are perfectly safe."
The Truth: Also false. "Safer than smoking" does not mean "Safe." Nicotine raises blood pressure, can strain the heart, and is addictive. They are a harm reduction tool, not a vitamin.
Myth #5: "Swallowing one will kill you."
The Truth: Swallowing one pouch will likely make you feel terrible (nausea, heart burn, hiccups), but for an adult, it is rarely a medical emergency. Your body will vomit it up or pass it. (However, for a child, it IS an emergency).
People Also Ask
Are they made of paper?
The pouch material is a non-woven viscose fiber—similar to a tea bag.
Is the powder sugar?
No, it is a filler like microcrystalline cellulose. Most pouches use artificial sweeteners (Xylitol/Ace-K), not sugar, to protect teeth.
Safety Disclaimer
Don't believe everything you read on TikTok. Trust the ingredient labels.
FAQ
Why do my gums bleed then?
Not because of glass. It's usually gingivitis or chemical irritation from the pH/nicotine. Switch sides and improve hygiene.
Do they contain tobacco?
Most commercial pouches (Zyn, On!, Velo) are tobacco-free. They contain nicotine extracted from tobacco, but no leaf material.