
Experts warn against health risks of non-compliant pouches
Fake tobacco, vapes and cigarette seizures have been on the rise across the UK as government-funded projects aim to tackle enforcement around the sale and use of non-compliant products.
But it’s not only vapers and smokers at risk. As nicotine pouches increase in popularity, experts fromĀ AlternixĀ have shared a warning to users to ensure they’re buying legitimate products to avoid potential health risks.
In light of this, David Phillips from Alternix shares tips to help consumers stay safe and spot non-compliant nicotine pouches on the high street and online.
Price
If it seems too good to be true, then it probably is. If you see somewhere selling these products at a fraction of the price then do your research to see what the going rate is.
Packaging
A genuine product should have high quality packaging with an unbroken seal. Be sure to check for any signs of tampering and also pay close attention to the printing on the product. Check for misspellings and consistency in branding against the manufacturer’s official products.
QR codes
Many products contain serial numbers or QR codes which when inputted will take you directly to the manufacturer’s website. If they don’t contain these or take you to an untrustworthy source then it’s best to avoid purchasing.
Trusted retailers
Always purchase nicotine pouches from trusted retailers such as supermarkets, directly from the manufacturer or via specialist websites. If in doubt, check out reviews for online retailers to make sure you’re getting the real deal. Never buy nicotine pouches from private sellers through online marketplaces like Facebook or Gumtree.
The dangers of fake nicotine pouches
David summarises and explains the dangers behind fake nicotine pouches:
“Using counterfeit nicotine pouches is highly risky, as they can contain unknown and unregulated chemicals, inconsistent nicotine levels, and are produced without any quality or safety controls. This can lead to serious health risks, including nicotine poisoning, chemical burns, and long-term harm to your health.
“If you’re using pouches to help quit smoking they can also set you back on your efforts as inconsistent nicotine levels can be less effective at helping to manage your cravings in a controlled way.”
To learn more about tips to safely useĀ nicotine pouchesĀ visit the Alternix website.
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