4 Differences between Nicotine Pouches and Vaping

Vaping

Also known as an e-cigarette and specifically created to help quit smoking, a vape is an electronic device that uses heat to vaporise a liquid, that often contains flavour compounds and sometimes nicotine – which is then inhaled. Without the presence of tobacco, this process eliminates the inhalation of tar and the carcinogenic cancer-causing compounds it contains.

Nicotine Pouches

A relatively recent version of the already existing snus, the tobacco-free nicotine pouch gained traction around 2015 as an alternative nicotine product. Nicotine pouches are pre-packaged products that are tucked in-between the cheek/lip and gum. They release nicotine directly into the bloodstream over the course of around 30 minutes – making these alternatives smoke-free as well.

VAPING VS. NICOTINE POUCHES

1. Ability to Control Intake

Both vaping and nicotine pouches are available in a variety of nicotine strengths, which allow users to control and progressively reduce their nicotine intake. This is particularly important when considering the key role that nicotine replacement products have for those looking to transition from cigarettes to being tobacco and smoke-free.

2. Use in Public Spaces

When it comes to public use, nicotine pouches are often preferred over vaping for two main reasons. Firstly, the lack of smoke in nicotine pouches also means that there is no second-hand smoke affecting others in a public setting. Secondly, many public places – such as restaurants, buses, airplanes and offices – do not permit smoking or vaping – which may be an important consideration for some.

3. Element of Substitution

On the other hand, the choice of transition from tobacco cigarettes may be influenced by the fact that vaping provides a more traditional smoking experience with its requirement to inhale and exhale – and the presence of vapour. Often, these actions contribute to the habit forming and ritualistic elements of a smoking addiction. Therefore, users find other nicotine replacement products to be a poor and insufficient substitution for traditional smoking. In such cases, vaping offers reduced harm for a similar and familiar experience.

4. Price Factors

Financially, the habit of vaping and the habit of nicotine pouches feel somewhat similar, with perhaps the former being slightly more expensive when accounting for the one-off price of the device. However, this depends on country, quality, company, as well as the quantity, frequency and nicotine strength opted for.

IN CONCLUSION

As mentioned above, pros and cons exist for both vaping and nicotine pouches. Other region-based factors – such as accessibility, flavours available and social acceptance – may also influence ones choice between the two. Either way, these tobacco-free alternatives serve as a useful tool on the journey to smoking cessation.

Learn more about the benefits of quitting smoking.