UAE Approves Synthetic Nicotine Pouches, Follows Sweden's Model

Several countries are increasingly turning to alternative nicotine products such as nicotine pouches and vaping to reduce smoking rates and associated health risks. The UAE recently approved the sale of synthetic nicotine pouches, referencing Sweden's successful use of these alternatives to lower smoking rates and cancer incidences. Sweden's comprehensive harm-reduction approach, including wide availability of nicotine pouches and strict regulation, has made it a model for countries like the U.S., which has also started regulating nicotine alternatives and raising the minimum purchase age. In the U.K., free vape kits have led to higher smoking cessation rates, particularly for individuals who struggled to quit using other methods. Meanwhile, the popularity of nicotine pouches such as Zyn is rising among young adults in the U.S., with some attributing record-low youth smoking rates to these alternatives. However, debates remain, as some studies question the effectiveness of vaping for quitting, indicating that the role of alternative nicotine products in public health continues to evolve.