Study shows nicotine pouches are becoming more popular among college students

OHIO — An Ohio State University study has found that an increasing number of college students, especially fraternity members, are using nicotine pouches, such as Zyn.

Users often place the pouch between their lip and gum.

Leading author and Associate College of Public Health Professor Megan Roberts said little is known about the potential health issues that come with using the product. Nicotine pouches have shown to increase heart rate, increase blood pressure and cause multiple oral health issues, according to the study.

“I don’t think any legitimate health coach is going to recommend using Zyn before going to the gym,” Roberts said.

Of the 1,400 students who were surveyed, 15% of undergraduate students and 11% of graduate students said they had tried a nicotine pouch.

Fraternity members were reported to have tried products like Zyn at a higher, 41% rate.

“It seems to have been rapidly incorporated into fraternity life. Part of this is college culture, and part of this may be that some social media influencers have promoted pouch use as a stimulant to boost energy for workouts, including weightlifting,” Roberts continued.

“Many students reported using the pouches while socializing at parties and while drinking — ‘I like the buzz’ was the most commonly cited reason for using them,” explained Roberts.

The pouches come in mint and fruit flavors and are much more discrete than using other forms of consuming nicotine. The product is often used in places where smoking is not allowed, like classrooms.