On January 16, the FDA authorized the sale of 20 ZYN pouches, citing sufficient evidence that the “new products offer greater benefits to population health than risks.”
ZYNs are small nicotine pouches that are used by placing them between a person’s gums and lip. When using ZYN, there is no smoking, and thus there are fewer harmful additives within it. However, if used consistently over time, it can result in gum irritation and possible decay.
Research institutions such as Johns Hopkins School of Public Health are more concerned with the marketing tactics ZYN uses to target young kids. ZYNs in stores like Wawa or CVS cost as little as $5.29 versus a vape pen, which, depending on the brand, can cost around $17.
In their marketing, ZYN targets the discrete nature of the product, similar to chewing gum or eating a piece of candy. Because they sit on top of the gums, teachers are less likely to notice, and even if they did, because Strath Haven does not have a strong no-gum policy, it looks nothing out of the ordinary.
Business Insider noted the owner of ZYN’s stock did very well last quarter and continues to grow steadily. But while they grow in popularity, they also grow in misconceptions.
The FDA ruled ZYNs as “better” because there are no carcinogenic materials. Nothing is smoked when using a ZYN; thus, carcinogenic chemicals do not get into your lungs and cause side effects. However, because ZYNs contain nicotine, excessive amounts can lead to anxiety, cardiovascular issues, and addiction.
Some students have reported seeing others taking ZYNs in class, sticking them under their desks, and sharing them with friends. Because of their discreet packaging, any teacher would look the other way.
“I wouldn’t say it is a substitute for vaping,” senior Zunairah Ali said. “It’s more of a substitute for chewing tobacco. I don’t know why they are pushing it towards teens, I don’t think there is much crossover between the two.”
Ali is a co-president of the business club and feels the marketing strategies are flawed in terms of the target audience. Because so little is known about the product, some people rule it as “healthier” or having “less impact.” The future of ZYNs, in both positive and negative ways, is still undetermined.
As of April 7, Washington officials introduced a bill to ban flavored tobacco and nicotine. This does not affect ZYNs, but it shows the changes that might be coming about the product and other nicotine products similar to it.
