Selling Flavored “Nicotine Pouches” is Illegal in California

Big Tobacco’s newest tool to addict youth is the “nicotine pouch.” Zyn, the most popular brand, is owned by Phillip Morris International. Users may avoid certain cancers but still face nicotine addiction and an increased likelihood of switching to regular cigarettes or vapes in the future. The sale of flavored version of ANY of these products is illegal in California.

Rather than nicotine extracted from tobacco leaves, Zyn and other brands of pouches contain synthetic nicotine or nicotine analogs. Fortunately, in September 2024, California Assembly Bill 3218 wisely amended the existing Flavored Tobacco Products Law to add both substances to its definition of tobacco products.

If you or someone important to you smokes, vapes, or uses nicotine pouches, we can help them quit. Learn more at www.lungsrus.org/ash-kickers.