ZYN was invented in Sweden in the early 2010s by Swedish Match as a tobacco-free nicotine alternative. Its popularity surged following its 2014 launch in the US market, then in Sweden in 2016. ZYN expanded to the UK shortly thereafter and, in 2022, PMI acquired Swedish Match, further accelerating ZYN’s international presence.
ZYN pouches are tobacco-free, nicotine-containing pouches designed for discreet and smokeless nicotine use. Users simply place the pouch under their upper lip, allowing nicotine to release gradually for around 30 minutes. ZYN is used by adult nicotine users who prefer smoke-free nicotine alternatives.
For more on pouch placement and usage, read our detailed how to use ZYN guide.
ZYN nicotine pouches are known for their:
The practical ZYN pouch design delivers a consistent nicotine release. ZYN's dry texture and formulation are carefully designed to gradually release nicotine over time, providing a steady and discreet experience for adult users.
This controlled nicotine release has been highlighted in research, including studies indicating ZYN pouches offer effective and steady nicotine delivery comparable to other nicotine alternatives1.
ZYN offers a variety of popular flavours in the UK, including Cool Mint, Espressino, Citrus, and more. Available in nicotine strengths from 1.5 mg/pouch (normal) up to 13.5 mg/pouch (extra strong), ZYN’s products are clearly marked, such as "ZYN Mini Dry," indicating size and style.
Explore the full range of UK ZYN strengths or visit the ZYN brand page for the complete selection.
The non-numerical strength categories referenced above reflect Northerner’s nicotine strength classification:
ZYN pouches differ from traditional snus primarily because they contain no tobacco. While traditional snus is banned in the UK (except tobacco-free snus), ZYN remains widely available as a tobacco-free alternative.
The sale of ‘traditional’ tobacco snus is banned in the UK under the Tobacco and Related Products Act 2016.
Curious about the differences? Learn more in our snus vs nicotine pouches guide for an in-depth comparison of "snus vs ZYN".
ZYN pouches contain:
Importantly, ZYN is completely tobacco-free, providing nicotine without smoke or combustion.
ZYN pouches are tobacco-free and smoke-free, eliminating the harmful combustion of by-products typically associated with traditional smoking.
According to respected health authorities such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the UK's National Health Service (NHS), nicotine itself does not cause cancer, lung disease, heart disease, or stroke2, 3, 4. These authorities clearly state that it is the toxicants in tobacco smoke, not nicotine, that cause significant health risks.
However, nicotine remains an addictive substance and these products are for adults aged 18+. Always use responsibly and refer to our nicotine pouch effects guide for more details.
ZYN is recognised in many markets for its innovation, discreet format, and widespread popularity, notably in markets like the US, UK, and Sweden. The brand’s strong international presence was particularly evident during the recent ZYN nationwide supply shortage in the US, underscoring its demand among consumers. Used by adult consumers in multiple countries, ZYN pouches offer an alternative to traditional tobacco products.
ZYN is a tobacco-free nicotine product intended for adult nicotine users.
ZYN pouches range from 1.5 mg to 13.5 mg of nicotine per pouch.
Place the pouch discreetly under your upper lip for around 30 minutes and dispose of it responsibly afterward.
ZYN provides a discreet, smoke-free, and tobacco-free nicotine experience.
No, ZYN pouches are completely tobacco-free.