Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Mar 7: Oral nicotine pouches are emerging as a new health concern, with Tamil Nadu’s Directorate of Drugs Control (DDC) issuing a public alert and serving show-cause notices to dealers selling these products online. Experts warn that these pouches are highly addictive and could pose serious health risks.

An online search revealed that nicotine pouches are sold on at least three e-commerce platforms under various brands and flavours. The DDC clarified that these products are not approved in India, and their safety, quality, and efficacy remain unestablished. Authorities have directed manufacturers, retailers, distributors, hospitals, pharmacies, and online marketplaces to refrain from manufacturing, stocking, or selling these products.

Nicotine pouches, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are small microfiber pouches containing nicotine, flavourings, and other ingredients. They are placed between the gums and lips, delivering nicotine directly into the bloodstream. Experts note that nicotine is a highly addictive chemical, especially dangerous for youth, young adults, and pregnant women, and no nicotine product, including pouches, is considered safe.

S. Cyril Alexander, State convenor of the Tamil Nadu Peoples’ Forum for Tobacco Control, said, “Nicotine pouches are designed to attract users, including adults, due to flavours and forms. While retail sales haven’t been widely detected in Tamil Nadu, these products are easily accessible online through over 100 portals. Strict enforcement and a complete ban are necessary.”

Dr. Surendran Veeraiah, head of the department of psycho-oncology at the Cancer Institute (WIA), Chennai, added, “Being tobacco-free does not mean these pouches are harmless. They carry cardiovascular risks and can cause gum problems. Cyber crime cells must be vigilant, and regulations must be strengthened.”

Experts highlighted that synthetic nicotine and high-strength products, some containing up to 50 mg, pose additional dangers. They called for state-level amendments to the Public Health Act and a nationwide ban to prevent nicotine pouches from replacing traditional tobacco and e-cigarettes.