WASHINGTON. The diminutive yet contentious Zyn, the tobacco alternative a product of Philip Morris, has emerged as a focal point, stirring discussions about its potential impact, particularly on youth consumption and public health.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about Zyn:
What is Zyn?
Zyn presents itself as an oral pouch containing nicotine powder infused with various flavors like mint, coffee, and citrus. Positioned as the vanguard of the tobacco industry’s quest to adapt to evolving consumer preferences, Zyn is marketed by Philip Morris International to adult tobacco users, albeit classified as a tobacco product by U.S. regulators.
How Do Nicotine Pouches Work?
These pouches are inserted between the lip and gums, gradually releasing controlled amounts of nicotine into the bloodstream, devoid of the need for spitting associated with traditional chewing tobacco. Philip Morris representatives highlight Zyn’s nicotine-exclusive composition as a key selling point, aimed at enhancing consumer acceptance of oral tobacco products.
Is Zyn Healthier Than Traditional Tobacco?
While all tobacco products entail inherent health risks, Zyn’s proponents argue for its potentially reduced harm compared to conventional cigarettes and chewing tobacco. Similar to snus, another oral tobacco variant, Zyn is speculated to exhibit lower levels of carcinogens and toxic components. However, recent studies have flagged the presence of harmful substances like ammonia and formaldehyde in Zyn and similar products.
Will Zyn Receive FDA Authorization?
The fate of Zyn hinges on the ongoing FDA review of Philip Morris’ marketing application, submitted in 2020. To secure authorization, companies must demonstrate their products’ efficacy in reducing disease among adult tobacco users while mitigating underage usage.
Is Zyn Popular Among Youth?
Current data suggests a minimal prevalence of Zyn use among young people, with only 1.5% of high school and middle school students reporting its consumption. Nonetheless, concerns loom over the viral dissemination of videos depicting Zyn usage among adolescents, reminiscent of the proliferation of Juul during the pre-COVID era.
Can Zyn Aid Smoking Cessation?
While Zyn shares similarities with FDA-approved cessation aids in delivering nicotine, its efficacy in aiding quitting remains uncertain. Studies indicate a comparatively slower nicotine delivery rate compared to cigarettes, potentially limiting its utility for smokers seeking immediate relief from cravings.
As Zyn continues to occupy the spotlight, the discourse surrounding its regulation, impact on public health, and role in smoking cessation strategies underscores the complex interplay between innovation, regulation, and societal well-being in the realm of tobacco alternatives.
Gary P Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
